Nursery World - Scotland 'is brave to ban smacking'

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children has praised 'Scotland the brave' for pressing ahead with plans to outlaw the smacking of babies and toddlers. The Scottish Executive's proposals were set out in full in the Criminal Justice Bill, published last week. The Bill will make it illegal to hit children under three and to use implements to punish children of any age.

The Scottish Executive's proposals were set out in full in the Criminal Justice Bill, published last week. The Bill will make it illegal to hit children under three and to use implements to punish children of any age.

NSPCC director Mary Marsh said, 'This is definitely a case of "Scotland" the brave on child protection. It contrasts starkly with the timid failure of the Government in England and Wales to change the law to protect children from being hit. The Scottish reform proposals should prompt a policy rethink south of the border.

'The Government's policy of inaction is at odds with Scotland, much of Europe and public opinion in England and Wales.'

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