Bill to ban smacking introduced to Holyrood
A ban on smacking children is likely to become law in Scotland following the introduction of a member's bill in the Scottish Parliament.
The Children (Equal Protection from Assault) (Scotland) Bill, promoted by Green MSP John Finnie, has the support of the Scottish Government and probably also of most MSPs, though the Conservatives support the present law as "based on common sense".
In five sections it abolishes the defence of reasonable chastisement, puts a duty on ministers to promote public awareness and understanding of the law, and preserves the previous law for anything done before it comes into force.
Mr Finnie said his bill would not change the way the police or social workers dealt with assault against children. "Rather, it establishes the principle that assault can never be 'justifiable'."
Confirming the Government's support, Maree Todd, Minister for Children and Young People, commented: "This bill sends a clear signal that all physical punishment of children is wrong. Evidence shows that this can lead to aggressive and problematic behaviour into adolescence and adulthood.
"And, there is overwhelming public support for the bill. A YouGov poll in 2015 showed that over 90% of those surveyed want to see children have at least the same protection rights as adults."