Gatland's first act as the new national coach was to draw up plans designed to keep homegrown talent in Wales and boost regional rugby.

Players contracted to clubs outside Wales are only released for international duty on Test weeks - but Gatland wants improved and regular access to his elite squad.

For example, he is without Gloucester duo Gareth Delve and Gareth Cooper this weekend after both returned to Gloucester for a Premiership match against Wasps while the rest of the Wales squad remain in camp.

The matter was discussed and supported at a board meeting last night. It already had the full support of WRU chief executive Roger Lewis and the four regions.

A WRU spokesman said: "The strategy is aimed at making it clear to players the Wales coaching team regards access to players during and outside squad time as significant in their development, preparation and welfare.

"The confirmation of the WRU strategy will not initiate any changes to the current squad.

"This is seen as a positive boost for Wales and the regions because of the close liaison between the national coaching team and their regional counterparts.

"It will enable constant dialogue and access between coaches and players to ensure individuals are developing to their fullest potential at all times."

The WRU insist the proposal is principally aimed at the next generation of Wales players, but Dwayne Peel's decision last week to leave the Llanelli Scarlets for Sale was seen as something of a slap in the face.

Gatland was forced to soften his stance over Peel's selection and concede his international future will not be affected my moving to the Premiership.

So it was with great delight the WRU received confirmation from fly-half Stephen Jones on Thursday that he would sign a new deal with the Scarlets.

Jones, who spent two years at Clermont Auvergne before returning to Stradey Park in 2006, had been linked with moves to Biarritz and Munster.

Lewis said: "Stephen is a great player and a great Scarlet so I am delighted he is staying to play his rugby here.

"The team will benefit from his talent and experience, the supporters will benefit from watching him in action and Welsh rugby will benefit from having him here.

"Everyone now knows we are concerned about the playing location of our internationals and the effect this will have on selection decisions.

"Player location is an important factor for a variety of reasons and we need to develop a structure and system which aligns to the needs of our regions and the senior international side.

"Having Stephen here in the Welsh fold makes him front of thought for our coaching team and will help boost the competition for the Wales jersey."