The Scout Association

The annual Speaker’s Reception gives Scouts from all over the UK the unique experience of going behind closed doors for a look at where the country is run.

Scouts were given the chance to quiz leading politicians, challenging MPs on what they felt they could do for Scouting.

The experience was an ideal opportunity for young people to not only see the inner workings of Parliament and meet the leading lights of British politics, it was also a chance to talk directly about Scouting and what’s important to young people.

Unique experiences

Graham Phillips, County Commissioner for Cheshire said: ‘For a number of years we have had a policy of using every opportunity to give young people unique experiences. Although this takes a lot of organising, the letters of appreciation from those attending makes it very worthwhile.’

The reception, along with the Scouts Speak Up events, help to dispel the myth that young people are apathetic when it comes to political issues.

The recent campaign against Ofwat’s planned changes to the way water companies charge community groups for the disposal of waste water was a great success, further lending weight to the cause of young people becoming politically active.

"This event was also our opportunity to say 'thank you' for the support the Movement receives from MPs,' says Wayne Bulpitt, the UK Chief Commissioner. 'In particular, we expressed our appreciation for their support of the 'Stop the Rain Tax' campaign as well as the more discreet support that many MPs give to local Scout Groups. We also set them some challenges for the remainder of Parliament and their manifestos.'