Doctors and Lawmakers Advocate for Smacking Ban in England

Proposed amendment seeks to remove 'reasonable punishment' defense, citing harm to children's health and well-being.

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) supports banning smacking in England, aligning with Scotland and Wales.
Labour MP Jess Asato has proposed an amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill to eliminate the 'reasonable punishment' defense, which dates back to 1860.
Scientific evidence shows physical punishment harms children's physical, mental, and emotional health, with no proven benefits.
Advocates emphasize positive parenting techniques and call for support systems to help parents adopt non-violent disciplinary methods.
Public opinion is shifting, with 71% of English adults viewing smacking as unacceptable, according to recent surveys.