Brown questioned the motives of Llanelli and Cardiff

He was pleased with the massive vote of approval for change given by last Sunday's extraordinary general meeting of the Union's member clubs, but says that the proposal did not go far enough.

"The EGM fudged what I regard as the vital issue. The WRU should have stipulated the number of regional sides," said Brown.

"The Board of Newport is in favour of four regional sides. If the consensus is not available the WRU should face up to the situation and proceed with four and fight whatever litigation is threatened."

It is possible that there is a hidden agenda involving Llanelli and Cardiff Tony Brown

Brown's opinions were backed up by Neath coach Lyn Jones who also thinks that the Union should be prepared to undertake legal action.

The Newport board has called a meeting with club supporters for 19 March where they will present their opinions on four regional sides and assess the response of the fans.

Brown says he has written to WRU group chief executive David Moffett, explaining his belief that five teams are undeliverable and the status quo of nine "unthinkable."

He stressed the urgency of action if the changes are to be in place for next season and questioned the motives of Llanelli and Cardiff, the leading opponents of the four-team plan.

"It is possible that there is a hidden agenda involving these two clubs," said Brown.

"If they delay progress sufficiently then we will enter next season as nine, thus paralysing any progress made last Sunday and leaving Welsh rugby a laughing stock."

Brown says his club have held further talks with Ebbw Vale over the creation of a regional side for next season, but that critical decisions cannot be taken until the new structure is in place.

"We are ready to move ahead in Gwent, as I understand Neath and Bridgend are in central Glamorgan.

"Now it is down to David Moffett and his new team of professionals at the WRU to go the extra mile and resolve this saga."