Panel chair Martin Picton said: “Harvey Biljon accepted the charge. The panel accepted the joint position that this case was the equivalent of a low-end entry point (noting that under Rule 5.12, sanction is at large) which has a starting point of two weeks suspension. The panel were not persuaded by the submission that the offence merited a reprimand only and that any suspension could itself be suspended for a period. This kind of conduct means that an immediate suspension is appropriate. 

“Mitigation was given on account of the full acceptance of the charge, his apology and remorse for the comment, the open and honest way in which Mr Biljon engaged with the panel, the supporting character evidence and the lack of any previous similar offending. In addition, Mr Biljon spoke of the steps he had taken to educate others at the club since the incident which the panel commended. This means a one game suspension from all match day coaching duties (meaning he can only attend as a spectator), which will be served over the game against Doncaster Knights on the 15 January.

“In addition to being suspended for one week, Mr Biljon is required to give two presentations on the core values and the importance of respect for match officials. He will also be required to provide the RFU with video evidence of the presentations which confirm his compliance with this requirement.”