The ongoing dispute over media coverage at the forthcoming Rugby World Cup escalated this morning as leading news agency Reuters suspended its coverage of pre-tournament events and training sessions.

"Reuters regrets this course of action," read a statement released this morning. "However, protecting the interests and coverage rights of our global client base is of key importance to Reuters."

"Amid growing confusion and uncertainty over reporting terms, and the IRB's unwillingness to engage with us to resolve the dispute over accreditation terms, Reuters is unable to continue coverage as planned."

"Reuters would like to resume coverage of the Rugby World Cup, to provide the world's media with premium, timely text, photographs and TV.

"However, freedom of the press and our editorial integrity are at the core of our business, and these must be  respected."