MSPs open call for evidence on anti-smacking bill

A Holyrood committee has issued its call for evidence as it begins its scrutiny of the bill that would criminalise the physical punishment of children in Scotland.

The Equalities & Human Rights Committee is considering at stage 1 the Children (Equal Protection from Assault) (Scotland) Bill, introduced by Green MSP John Finnie. The bill would remove the defence of "reasonable chastisement" from Scots law, without which parents and guardians would not be able to physically punish their children.

The committee is seeking to gather as wide a range of views as possible, to inform its work. In addition to whether people support the aims of the bill, the MSPs would particularly welcome views on what groups would be impacted by the change (for example, parents, children, public services, the legal profession, etc); whether there might be any additional impact on groups with protected characteristics; whether there are any equalities and human rights issues raised by the approach taken in the Bill that should be considered; and whether the bill will result in any resource implications for organisations or individuals.

Committee convener Ruth Maguire MSP commented: "This Bill has aroused strong views. There are passionately held beliefs on both sides of this argument – from those who think that physical punishment violates a child’s human rights, to those who feel parents should have a right to smack their children.

"As the proposed law starts making its way through the parliamentary process, we are keen to hear from people in Scotland who have a view on this subject. This will help us as we carry out our role as parliamentarians and inform our consideration of the proposals.

"While committee members will be getting out and about around Scotland, engaging with young people and community groups, absolutely anyone can submit their views to us. Full details on how to get in touch can be found on the Parliament’s website."

Click here to access the call for views. The deadline for responses is 21 January 2019.