The RFU is to hold its own investigation into the behaviour of the three Harlequins players caught up in sex allegations on England's tour of New Zealand.

Danny Care, Mike Brown, David Strettle and London Irish's Topsy Ojo were named in The Sun earlier this week as the players who New Zealand police wanted to speak to into allegations of a sexual assault on an unnamed 18-year-old girl.

The incident was alleged to have occured following the first Test defeat to the All Blacks on June 14.

Since no formal complaint had been forthcoming the players - who had all said they were innocent - had been advised not to speak to the police.

However, the RFU has announced plans to hold its own investigation, led by its disciplinary officer Judge Jeff Blackett.

At its regular monthly meeting yesterday, the RFU Management Baord received a full report from RFU elite rugby director Rob Andrew on the The RFU Management Board at its regular monthly meeting today received a full report from the RFU Elite Rugby Director, Rob Andrew MBE on the tour, which saw England lose both Test matches to the All Blacks.

A statement released afterwards read: "The board were concerned at the damage to the game's reputation as a result of the allegations made regarding the behaviour of four of the 32-strong touring party after the first test match in Auckland.

"The board noted that no formal complaint had yet been made to the Auckland police, that the players deny the allegations and that they have the full support of the England squad and team management in this respect.

"The board agreed that England players have always been great ambassadors for the game and their country.

"Wearing the white shirt is a great honour that brings with it great rewards but also carries great responsibilities.

"In the age of celebrity, England players must always be aware of their position and the dangers that may exist for them at all times."

Martin Johnson, who takes up his post of England national team manager next week, will also be told to implement a new players' code of conduct.