Overview

• The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health is urging lawmakers to outlaw smacking in England, calling it a harmful and outdated practice.
• An amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill seeks to remove the 'reasonable punishment' defence, which dates back to 1860.
• Proponents of the ban highlight evidence linking physical punishment to negative physical, emotional, and mental health outcomes for children.
• The push for reform has gained momentum following the high-profile murder case of Sara Sharif, whose abuse underscored the dangers of physical punishment.
• England would join 67 countries, including Scotland and Wales, that have already banned smacking if the amendment is passed.