Vetting 'threatens scout events'

In 2007 the World Scout Jamboree involved about 12,000 volunteers

New anti-paedophile vetting rules will threaten the 90-year tradition of Scout Jamborees, the Scout Association says.

It has warned that major gatherings of troops from around the world may be cancelled due to the introduction of the scheme.

Under the controversial rules anyone working or volunteering with children must register for background checks.

But organising checks on thousands of foreign Scout leaders was "just not possible", a spokesman said.

Volunteers who fail to register face the prospect of criminal prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000.

Simon Carter, Scout Association spokesman, said: "When we hold big international jamborees we rely on adults from other parts of the world coming in and staffing these events.

"The rules for checking people out suggest that if they were to come along and do intensive activity they would have to be checked.

[We] would not wish the Vetting and Barring Scheme to act as a deterrent to these events going ahead Department for Children, Schools and Families Q&A: Vetting and Barring Scheme

"Clearly we cannot do that, it's just not possible."

The association has written to Children's Secretary Ed Balls asking him to allow voluntary groups greater flexibility within the rules of the scheme.

A Department for Children, Schools and Families spokesman said: "We recognise the importance of children attending and participating in international events such as jamborees organised by the Scout Association, and would not wish the Vetting and Barring Scheme to act as a deterrent to these events going ahead.

"While the fine detail is yet to be finalised, we are working in collaboration with the Scout Association and others to ensure that the practical operation of the scheme does not impede the operation of these events."

Events involving 10,000 Scouts and about 2,000 volunteers from dozens of countries take place every year.