Britain's controversial law on smacking will be reviewed this summer, children's minister Beverley Hughes said last week, prompting renewed calls for a ban.
A review of section 58 of the Children's Act 2004, which limits the 'reasonable punishment' defence in cases involving alleged assaults by parents on their children, has been launched by the DfES. It honours a commitment made by former children's minister Margaret Hodge during the passage of the Act in 2004.
The review will involve a parental opinion survey, consultation with those working with children and families, and evidence from professionals and practitioners on the practical effects of section 58.
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