MPs push to ban smacking children in England

Members of Parliament (MPs) in England are pushing to ban smacking children, aligning with similar laws in Scotland and Wales. They aim to amend the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill to eliminate the legal defense of "reasonable punishment." Supporters, including children's charities, argue that the change would enhance child protection without criminalizing most parents. They cite tragic cases of child abuse to highlight the need for clearer laws against physical punishment. The government is currently resisting the amendment, awaiting an impact assessment from Wales. Meanwhile, advocates stress the importance of equal legal protection for children against physical assault.