Grieving families call for public inquiry into running of Scouts Association

The family of Ben Leonard and Sharon Collins, mother of Scott Fanning, have raised a petition requesting a public inquiry into the regulating of the Scouts Association, which was involved in the death of both boys.

The jury at the inquest investigating Ben Leonard's death earlier this year found serious wrongdoing by the Scouts and a conclusion of unlawful killing. North Wales police are also investigating potential charges against the SA and one of its leaders for perverting the course of justice. Two previous inquests were abandoned because of concerns over evidence presented by the Scouts.

Scott Fanning died in 1998 while also on a Scout trip. Although his death was recorded as accidental, the coroner at the time raised serious concerns around Scout procedures, particularly the training of Scout leaders.

Jill Greenfield, also interviewed by Granada TV News, said that because the SA is determined by a Royal Charter, there is no independent oversight of its working, meaning it is self-regulating.

Watch the video of interviews for Granada TV News.