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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Ella Pickover

Doctors call for law change to end smacking

  • The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) is advocating for a ban on smacking in England.
  • The doctors argue that the "reasonable punishment" defence for smacking children, which dates back to 1860, is outdated.
  • The RCPCH cites scientific evidence demonstrating the negative impact of physical punishment on children’s physical, mental and emotional health and the lack of any proven benefits.
  • Removing the defence would provide greater clarity for professionals working in child protection services and align England with the 67 countries that have already banned smacking, they say.
  • It follows increased scrutiny of child protection practices after the 2023 death of Sara Sharif and is supported by public opinion, with 71 per cent of English adults viewing smacking as unacceptable.
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