Doctors and Lawmakers Push to Ban Smacking of Children in England

Calls grow to remove the 'reasonable punishment' defence, citing evidence of harm and aligning with protections in other countries.

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College of Paediatrics and Child Health is urging lawmakers to outlaw smacking in England, calling it a harmful and outdated practice.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.