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04/12/2012
UK Scout Association Considers Atheist Oath
A consultation has been launched by the UK Scout Association to see if members would back a Scout Promise for those who feel unable to pledge a "duty to God".
Versions of the oath already exist for the Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist faiths, but this is the first time an alternative oath for atheists has been considered.
In March, the National Secular Society said atheist children and potential Scout leaders were being put off.
Membership of the Scouts has increased from 444,936 in 2005 to 525,364 this year.
But the movement needs more volunteers - it says that at present there are over 35,000 young people on waiting lists.
Girlguiding UK has also announced it will launch a consultation on the wording of their promise, which will start on 4 January 2013.
(H)
Versions of the oath already exist for the Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist faiths, but this is the first time an alternative oath for atheists has been considered.
In March, the National Secular Society said atheist children and potential Scout leaders were being put off.
Membership of the Scouts has increased from 444,936 in 2005 to 525,364 this year.
But the movement needs more volunteers - it says that at present there are over 35,000 young people on waiting lists.
Girlguiding UK has also announced it will launch a consultation on the wording of their promise, which will start on 4 January 2013.
(H)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
