He was unable to swear allegiance to God and the Queen in the Scout Promise because he is an atheist – and has been banned.
A schoolboy has been banned from joining the Scouts because he does not believe in God.
George Pratt, 11, has been going to his local group for around 10 months and was delighted when they invited him to sign up as a full member.
But he was unable to swear allegiance to God and the Queen in the Scout Promise because he is an atheist – and has now been banned from attending.
George said yesterday: “I am really disappointed about not being able to go any more just because I don’t believe in God.
“We have spoken about it with the Scout leader, but he won’t change his decision, it is very unfair.
"My friends who are Scouts don’t think it is right, either.
“Everyone is going caving soon and I’ve never been before.
"It is something I would love to do, but I’m not allowed. I’m not going to change my decision though.”
Simon Carter, assistant director of media relations for the Scout Movement, said: “All young people are required to make the Scout Promise if they wish to become a Scout.
“Young people are required to show both an understanding – relevant to their age – and an acceptance of the Promise before they become a member.
“Scouting accepts that as they grow into adults, some young people may question or doubt the existence of God as they develop their personal spiritual understanding.
“Scouting believes that young people going through this process should be able to remain a Scout.”
SOURCE: UK MIRROR
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