Opinion divided as smacking ban consultation is launched

SOME have called it “ludicrous” – others an important milestone for Welsh parents. Opinions on a smacking ban on children in Wales are very much divided.

We asked people in Cardiff what they thought of the proposed law which may make its way through the Welsh Government.

Yesterday Minister for Children and Social Care Huw Irranca-Davies launched a 12-week consultation on the proposal as part of measures to help parents give children the best start in life.

First Minister Carwyn Jones has previously told AMs that ministers intend to legislate on the move from 2018. If passed by the National Assembly, it will mean that smacking and all forms of physical punishment against children in Wales will become illegal.

The law, Mr Irranca-Davies said, will support parents to feel confident using more effective methods of discipline than physical punishment.

For some people the decision is unnecessary.

Janet Hopkins, from Llanelli, said: “I disagree with it, I think people are intelligent enough to make up their own minds.

“Parents are in charge of their children, not the Welsh Government. It’s absolutely ludicrous.”

Sandra Harries, from Llanelli, added: “We were always smacked when we were children and I don’t think we were any worse off because of it.

“There are other things that are more important than that.”

Barbara MacArthur, 91, from Cathays, said: “I don’t agree with this smacking ban as it’s already covered by law if there is any allegations of over-chastisement.

“If there is any over-chastisement or smacking then of course social services will come in as it’s covered by law.”

The former social services worker added: “There are certain attitudes that have changed and people that beg for this law but there are people that don’t realise measures are already in place.”

Younger generations also had mixed feelings on the ban.

Danielle Stockwell, from Caerphilly, said: “A little tap is OK but nothing that causes bruising or red marks.

“It should be a decision taken by parents themselves as long as there is no abuse and the child isn’t physically harmed. There’s nothing wrong with a tap on the hand.”

But for others the consultation has been welcome.

Cardiff resident Penny Bowers said: “I don’t have children but I wouldn’t smack them.

“I think it should be about promoting more positive ways of disciplining children.”

Howard Williams, 67, said: “I’ve smacked my teenage children but that was out of frustration rather than an act of punishment.

“I think it will probably be a good idea as it will be clear under the law.”

The consultation has also been welcomed by political parties including the Welsh Liberal Democrats and Plaid Cymru.

Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds said: “This commonsense step is supported by children’s organisations across Wales and gives children the same protections from assault as their adult peers.

“Smacking is counter-productive.”