Wales coach Gatland has already been told by Lewis that it may be inappropriate for him to take a lead role alongside Lions coach Ian McGeechan for the summer tour to South Africa.

“Warren and I have agreed it would be not right for him to take on a lead role within the Lions,” Lewis told Scrum V.

“But I'd certainly be minded that if we could cross all the bridges, I think it's something I would certainly be supportive of.

“The reason I'd support it, is because Warren is such a rounded guy - he's so together, so focused.

“However, it would be a decision for the WRU board.”

Gatland’s assistants in the Wales set-up, Shaun Edwards and Rob Howley, are expected to be approached to assist McGeechan.

Graham Henry took the job as Lions coach for the 2001 tour to Australia while Wales coach, but Lewis feels the same problems would not arise with Gatland if the matter was handled correctly.

“We've all learned from the mistakes of the past, the mistakes of others. I think we could get it right this time," Lewis added.

“The first informal talks took place last February after the Scotland game in February. Warren and I had a beer in Cardiff.

“Now everyone's talking about the possibility of Welsh coaches being involved in next year's Lions tour.

“There's a lot of talk and a lot of speculation. Welsh rugby should take great heart from that.

“It's a great compliment. It is all talk though.

“No formal request has been put to the WRU board and the board would decide.”