Petition: Title

Ban convicted sex offenders from holding or gaining a UK Amateur Radio Licence

To: The UK Government and Ofcom

Petition Statement :
We call on the Government to require Ofcom & RSGB to prohibit individuals convicted of sexual offences from obtaining, holding, or renewing an amateur radio licence in the United Kingdom.

Why do you want the Government / Parliament , OFCOM & RSGB  to do this?
Amateur radio operators regularly participate in community events, public demonstrations, training activities, emergency communications exercises, and youth-related educational programmes. Amateur radio licence holders are trusted members of the community and should meet standards that protect public confidence and public safety.

Individuals convicted of sexual offences have committed serious crimes that can present safeguarding concerns. We believe those convicted of such offences should not be permitted to hold an amateur radio licence, and that Ofcom should have clear powers to revoke existing licences and refuse new applications from convicted sex offenders.

We ask the Government to review current licensing regulations and introduce legislation or regulatory changes that prevent convicted sex offenders from obtaining or retaining amateur radio licences in the UK.

We believe this change would strengthen safeguarding, protect the reputation of the amateur radio community, and increase public confidence in the amateur radio licensing system.

We ask the Government and Ofcom to :

1: Review whether individuals convicted of serious sexual offences should be eligible to hold an amateur radio licence.
2: Consider introducing safeguarding assessments for licence holders who have convictions for serious sexual offences.
3: Establish clear guidance for amateur radio clubs and organisations regarding safeguarding responsibilities.
4: Ensure that any policy changes are proportionate, lawful, and consistent with public protection requirements.
5 : Consult with amateur radio organisations, safeguarding experts, victims' groups, and relevant authorities before implementing changes.

Why This Matters
The amateur radio community has a long tradition of public service, education, and community engagement. Many clubs and events involve contact with young people and vulnerable individuals. Strengthening safeguarding measures would help maintain public confidence in the hobby while ensuring that appropriate protections are in place.

This petition seeks a review of current regulations and safeguarding arrangements to ensure that amateur radio licensing and associated activities continue to operate in a manner that prioritises public safety and public trust.

Requested Action : The Government should work with Ofcom and relevant stakeholders to review the suitability of licensing arrangements for individuals convicted of serious sexual offences and introduce any necessary safeguarding measures.