As anti-smacking campaigners point out, however, the proposals do not go far enough. Being eligible for physical punishment is a third birthday present that will not be welcomed nor understood by a small child. And ascertaining what constitutes a 'reasonable' smack is sure to lead to legal wrangles.
The news that Scottish childminders will be treated the same as other childcarers is very welcome, making England's standards look ever more ridiculous in allowing childminders to smack children with parents' permission. However, the Scottish proposals allow nannies and babysitters to use physical punishment if they are caring for a child in the parents' home. This dangerous suggestion should be re-examined.
And how long will it take the whole of the UK to recognise that hitting children is just not right? Judging by the outcry over a suggested partial ban, there's a long way to go.
