Local MSP John Finnie, Scottish Greens is delighted that his Member’s Bill on giving children in Scotland equal protection from assaults was granted Royal Assent on November 7th.

It was passed in the Scottish Parliament last month but can only become a law once it is enacted – receives Royal Assent.

Success for John Finnie MSP to Ban Smacking of Children in Scotland

The Act which was supported by an overwhelming majority of the Scottish Parliament means that children in Scotland will soon be given the same legal protection from assault that adults currently enjoy. The Act’s main provision comes into effect on November 6^th 2020.

MSPs voted 84-29 in favour, with only Tory MSPs refusing to support it.

John Finnie said:

“I am absolutely delighted to hear that Royal Assent has been granted to my Member’s Bill.

“This sends a strong message that violence is never acceptable in any setting, and that our children deserve at least the same legal protections that adults enjoy.

“Physical punishment has no place in 21st century Scotland. The international evidence tells us that it can have serious impacts on children, and that it is not effective. Similar legislation is progressing right now in Wales and I hope that we will see similar steps taken in England and Northern Ireland very soon.

“I am extremely proud to have brought forward the legislation that will enhance children’s rights in Scotland and I look forward to the full provisions of the Act coming into force.”

John Finnie, a former police officer retires from the Scottish Parliament in 2021.