MPs vote on smacking
The Government faces another potential rebellion in the Commons on Tuesday as the Children Bill enters its final stages.
But some MPs believe that the increased protection to children offered by the Bill is insufficient and will be seeking to amend the Bill to introduce an outright ban on the smacking of children.
Currently, smacking children is legal providing it is considered “reasonable chastisement” and an amendment to the Children Bill – tabled by Lord Lester in the Lords – would tighten the law further so that any smacking which caused bruising, reddening or mental distress would also be unlawful.
The Government has said it is happy to support this amendment, but has ordered its MPs to vote against any amendment which seeks to ban smacking entirely.
It is not prepared to move from this position, despite some MPs asking for a free vote to be granted. David Hinchliffe, who will move an amendment to ban smacking, was today predicting a “significant” rebellion.
If a significant number of MPs rebel against the whip, it would be the second backbench rebellion for the Government in 24 hours, after yesterday’s revolt on gambling.
Tony Blair has previously said he hopes to find a “commonsense solution” on smacking, arguing that parents know the difference between “disciplining their child and abuse of their child.”
However, campaigners argue that children should have the same legal protection under law as adults.
Opponents argue that any new restrictions on parents’ rights to discipline their children would be an unwarranted intrusion into family life, as well as introducing a law that would be difficult to police and enforce. It is expected that at least one amendment will be tabled to remove smacking from the Bill entirely.
Other elements of the Bill are less controversial, and would see the establishment of a Children’s Commissioner for England.
A final vote is expected at around 18:00 GMT.
