Wentworth tries to silence members

Wentworth members have been told they could be expelled from the club if they publicly criticise it or its owner.

Wentworth was acquired in 2014 by Reignwood, a Chinese conglomerate owned by the Thai billionaire Chanchai Ruayrungruang.

An inital proposal to massively increase the membership field, and effectively cull the existing membership, was eventually modified. But fees have still risen from £8,000 to £13,500 a year, and membership has apparently declined by 40% in the last two years.

Now Reignwood has issued a new rulebook that states that anyone who makes comments ‘injurious to the character or interest of the club’ on social media, the internet or to a newspaper or magazine could have their membership rescinded. Grievances can only be aired in private, it states.

Wentworth defended the new rulebook and said members were welcome to make complaints internally.

A spokesman said: “One rule has been amended to include express reference to current forms of media; as before the club wishes for member complaints to be handled through the established internal channels, committees and consultative forums at the club, rather than through the media.

“This rule is in common with equivalent rules at other private members’ clubs."

So much for free speach, and all that marlarky! Members, be careful what you Tweet! 

Related:

How you can play the new–look Wentworth