GAZETTE readers say smacking your child shows a ‘lack of self control’ amid debate after a leading politician said parents should be trusted to make their own decisions.
Disciplining children with a smack has been illegal in Scotland since 2020 and Wales since this year.
Education Secretary, Nadhim Zahawi rejected a call from the Children’s Commissioner for England for a ban on smacking children, saying mothers and fathers are “entitled” to be able to discipline their youngsters.
Mr Zahawi said he did not believe the state should be “nannying” parents about the way they bring up their children.
“My very strong view is that actually we have got to trust parents on this, and parents being able to discipline their children is something that they should be entitled to do,” the minister told Times Radio.
The Government has acknowledged it as “polarising” but makes no plans to change the law in England.
Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi at an event at the Natural History Museum in London to launch the Government's Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy which includes introducing a natural history GCSE in schools by September 2025. Picture date:
The Gazette asked readers whether they think it should be illegal to smack children.
Anna Greenwood said: “Smacking is bullying. It is physical assault.
“Hitting each other as adults is unacceptable, it should be even more so for children. Clear boundaries and consequences that are relatable is all that’s needed.
“Children lead by your example, they mimic your behaviour, you have to be the best version of yourself to lead and guide them into being responsible, emotionally intelligent, own decision making grown ups.”
Patrick Mead said: “No. The reason we have so many feral youths running around terrorising people is down to the stopping of corporal punishment in schools and in the home.”
Dick Austin said: “I think children gain respect and good behaviour from the ones who have the most influence in their life’s.
“Personally I don’t know how anyone can raise a hand to a child.
“Borderline it’s lack of knowing how to communicate to your children having to result to smacking.”
Alan Critchley said: “Yes. It’s illegal to hit an adult for good reason.
“Why would it be different for children?”
Michael Warr said: “Nope, bring back discipline and national service, that would solve a lot of the problems we have with kids these days.”
Sian Miles said: “Yes. Never smacked my kids and never will do. Shows a complete lack of self control.
“I have never smacked my children and they are two of the best behaved kids I know.
“How can you teach them not to hit and then hit them?? It makes no sense.”
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