Charity fundraisers who approach high street shoppers should be subject to stricter controls, according to a local politician.
Dubbed ‘Chuggers’, meaning charity muggers, the industry regulates itself but Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser would like to see local authorities step in and take over responsibility for ensuring charities don’t breach their code of conduct.
The UK Government recently looked into current regulations and called for a five-year deadline for the industry to get its house in order.
The report found two in three people have reported feeling uncomfortable as a result of the fundraising methods used by some charities and businesses also warned about the impact on trade and high street stores.
The Public Fundraising Regulatory Association is responsible for the regulation of face-to-face fundraisers across the UK including in Scotland.
Mr Fraser said: “Overly aggressive charity fundraisers who use persistent tactics to elicit support should be subject to greater regulation.
“Although the number of fundraisers who use these tactics are in a minority the effect they can have on shoppers and local businesses can be profound.
“High streets across Perth and Kinross, Fife, Stirling and Clackmannanshire are in need of support and anything that acts as a barrier towards people shopping on the high street should be tackled.
“The public often feel uncomfortable when being approached by fundraisers and we must ensure the industry is regulated more strictly to ensure it works for shoppers, charities and businesses.”