Survey: Should smacking children be banned?

Wales has this week made smacking children illegal, and we want to hear your thoughts on the issue.

New legislation sees the legal defence of 'reasonable punishment' removed, which means that anyone smacking a child under their care could be arrested and prosecuted.

The move to make smacking illegal follows on from Scotland, where it was outlawed in 2020.

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Welsh Ministers said that the new law - which will apply to parents or whoever is responsible for a child if the parents are absent - is aimed at ensuring that children get "the best start in life."

The change has seen criticism in some quarters, though, with the Welsh Conservatives expressing concerns that it would create a "Stasi culture."

Currently, the 'reasonable punishment' defence, which has been in force since Victorian times, is still active in England and Northern Ireland. Smacking a child is considered unlawful, but such an action could still be allowed under this defence.

In light of the recent change in Wales, we want to hear what you have to say on the divisive topic.

Should England also look at bringing in a ban? Let us know in our survey via this link or on the form below:

You can also share your thoughts in our comments section below.

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