SMACKING could be banned in Wales under plans to remove the defence of “reasonable punishment” to battery and assault offences.

The Welsh government is launching a 12-week consultation on the issue today as part of plans for a wider package of measures to support children.

If implemented, Wales would be following Scotland in ending the physical punishment of children.

Welsh Minister for children and Social Care Huw Irranca-Davies said: “We want parents in Wales to be confident in managing their children’s behaviour without feeling they must resort to physical punishment.

“If there is any potential risk of harm to a child, then it is our obligation as a government to take action.

“Legislation was introduced many years ago to stop physical punishment in schools and childcare settings. Now is the time to ensure it is no longer acceptable anywhere.”

A spokesman for NSPCC Cymru said the charity had long campaigned for children in Wales to have the same protection against assault as adults.