Minister of Education ‘open-minded’ about the ban on England

In England and Northern Ireland it is legal for a caregiver or parent to physically discipline their child if it is a “reasonable” punishment – but the Children Act 2004 made it illegal to assault a child causing actual or serious harm cause personal injury.

The previous Conservative government argued that parents should be trusted to discipline their children and that there were “clear laws” to prevent violence.

The Department for Education told the BBC earlier this week that it was now “looking closely” at the law changes in Scotland and Wales, which came into force in 2020 and 2022 respectively, to see if more could be done in England.

Dame Rachel said last week on

“If we are serious about ensuring every child is safe, it is time for England to take this necessary step,” she said.

“Too many children have been injured or killed by the people who should love and care for them most.”