Children Who Perform

Tim Loughton Excerpts

Thursday 24th May 2012 Written Statements

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Tim Loughton)]

Today I am launching a consultation on proposals to update the legislation to protect children who take part in performances and related activities.

We want to increase the opportunities for children to take part in activities that they enjoy and can benefit from. The current legislation is nearly 50 years old. The rules are detailed and hard to relate to modern-day activities. This makes it difficult for parents and producers to understand what is required of them, and for local authorities to process approvals efficiently and consistently. We intend to get rid of unnecessary bureaucracy and put in place an appropriate framework that helps keep children safe while allowing them greater opportunity to have fun, to learn, and to explore and develop their talents.

This is a joint consultation with the Welsh Government. A copy of the consultation document “Safeguarding children: proposed changes to child performance legislation” has been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.