Greens welcome government support for Equal Protection bill
A Green MSP’s bill to see children being given ‘equal protection from assault’ has received a renewed commitment from the Scottish Government, with a statement saying they “will ensure it becomes law”.
If enacted, John Finnie’s bill will “give children equal protection from assault by prohibiting the physical punishment of children by parents and others caring for or in charge of children”.
Scottish Labour announced earlier this week that it would also support the bill, saying it is “the right thing to do”.
Justice spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, John Finnie MSP said:
“It is especially welcome that the Scottish Government has reiterated its support for my bill because there is clear evidence that the use of physical punishment is detrimental to children’s long term health and wellbeing.
“Giving children equal protection against assault will send a clear message to all of us about how we treat each other and underpin Scotland’s efforts to reduce violence. The physical punishment of children is already illegal in 52 countries and my proposal will give children in Scotland the necessary protections to flourish in a healthy environment and encourage the building of stronger relationships between children, their parents and others who care for them.”