NSPCC comment on Welsh Government consultation to remove the defence of ‘reasonable punishment’
Following the Welsh Government’s announcement that it will launch a consultation on the proposal to remove the defence of ‘reasonable punishment’, an NSPCC Cymru / Wales spokesman said:
“The NSPCC has long campaigned for children in Wales to have the same protection against assault as adults so we welcome the steps being taken towards removing the defence of ‘reasonable punishment’.
“Doing so is a common-sense move which is about fairness and equality for children.
“It is wrong that a defence which does not exist in a case of common assault against an adult can be used to justify striking a child.
“Closing this loophole will bring Wales in line with dozens of countries around the world and finally give our children equal protection under the law.”
Adults concerned about a child’s safety can contact the NSPCC Helpline 0808 800 5000 or nspcc.org.uk. Any young person can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or at childline.org.uk. Both are free, confidential, and open 24/7.
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