Englands World Cup scrum-half was unable to attend part of this weeks England training due to business commitments.

And acting England head coach Andy Robinson announced that Wasps star Dawson had stepped down from the squad.

Robinson said that he and Dawson were both disappointed with the situation, and Robinson added, the door is still open for a return at some point, should his priorities change.

Robinson plans to replace both Dawson and Lawrence Dallaglio, who recently announced his retirement from international rugby, in the 60-man squad.

England have begun their preparations for their autumn schedule, which will see them play Canada, South Africa and Australia at Twickenham in November.