In 2001, the Boston Minuteman Council in Massachusetts approved a non-discrimination bylaw in regard to sexual orientation while also clarifying that discussions of sexual orientation were not permitted in Scouting. A national Scout spokesperson explained that the council's bylaw did not conflict with national policy. A spokesperson from the Cradle of Liberty Council explained that there is an unofficial "don't ask, don't tell" policy regarding sexual orientation. The Scout Executive of the Minuteman Council believes that the local councils have a large amount of autonomy.