91Èȱ¬

Coverage of Welsh rugby games on 91Èȱ¬ Two could end if plans to change the way the channel is broadcast go ahead, a think-tank claims.

The Institute of Welsh Affairs (IWA) claims the proposals to reduce content from Wales when 91Èȱ¬ Two is broadcast in high definition would mean rugby games are no longer available.

It also claims the plans could have a financial impact on Welsh clubs.

91Èȱ¬ Cymru Wales said rugby was a main priority for Welsh audiences.

The IWA's Media Policy Group has submitted evidence to the 91Èȱ¬ Trust as part of the its public consultation on its Delivery Quality First proposals to make 20% in savings.

It follows the licence fee settlement agreed with the UK government in October 2010, freezing the licence fee to 2017, and giving the 91Èȱ¬ new funding responsibilities for the World Service, S4C, 91Èȱ¬ Monitoring and local TV and broadband.

The IWA said the 91Èȱ¬ had not given any guarantees that 91Èȱ¬ Two will still broadcast in standard definition after 2015.

The IWA said: "At best this proposal will result in a large share of 91Èȱ¬ Wales output being seen as second best because [it is] only available in standard definition.

"The lack of an opt-out facility on 91Èȱ¬2 would impose a radical limitation on the service for Wales. 91Èȱ¬2 is the channel that allows 91Èȱ¬ Wales to extend the range of its programming."

A 91Èȱ¬ Cymru Wales spokesperson said: "Major events and sport that bring the nation together represent one of the five editorial principles of the 91Èȱ¬.

"For 91Èȱ¬ Cymru Wales, coverage of sports that provide the greatest value and impact for our audiences - including live TV coverage of domestic and international rugby - is central to our delivery of this priority for the audience in Wales."