Paedophile information laws warning

Government plans to allow some people to ask for information about possible child sex abusers could leave resources overstretched, the children's charity said.

The charity fears inappropriate information could be given out unless clear guidelines are established and sufficient resources put in to implement them.

Director Dame Mary Marsh said the move could affect the care of around 30,000 known offenders living outside of prison. She also said the Government must introduce a "fail-safe" system that will ensure all children are fully protected.

Dame Mary said: "We always urge members of the public to report their concerns, but agencies are already struggling to keep track of known offenders in the community.

"Every year the police deal with around 5,000 reports of children who have been raped. Investigating reports of sexual offences against children, bringing offenders to justice and managing them when released into the community is placing severe strain on agencies."

Proposals for England and Wales could, for the first time, give parents, guardians and carers some access to details about convicted paedophiles.

The Home Office has completed a review into how information about child sex offenders should be handled and is expected to make an announcement this week. It will mean people have the right to ask for details about suspected child sex offenders in three pilot areas.

Mothers could request a police check if they have concerns about a new boyfriend, for example.

But ministers ruled out adopting a version of the US Megan's Law which allows widespread access to details about sex offenders.