Scottish Rugby withdrew from a joint-UK bid for the event in April after failing to reach a consensus with the other home unions.

It has been reported they agreed to vote for England as hosts, a decision that proved crucial in bringing the tournament back to Britain at yesterday’s International Board Council meeting.

McKie, who attended the meeting, said: “Our aim will be to engage with Rugby Football Union in England to ensure that rugby, and sport in general in Scotland, will be able to benefit from the International Rugby Board’s decision to award the 2015 Rugby World Cup hosting rights to England.

“That benefit might come in areas such as marketing the game and increased participation.

“Also, with England talking about hosting matches as close to the Scottish border as Newcastle and Sunderland, we will look to work with our neighbours to fully promote the World Cup and thus interest people in our game.

“Obviously, it’s not very far for our supporters to travel to get behind the Scotland team.”