Parents and carers could be banned from smacking children under legislation proposed by the Welsh government.

The administration plans to remove the defence of reasonable punishment from the offences of assault and battery, meaning that any adult looking after a child in Wales would not legally be able to hit him or her.

Welsh ministers say the changes will give parents clarity about what they can and cannot do to discipline a child. But some parents’ and family groups are opposed to the plans, claiming they will criminalise fathers and mothers.

In an attempt to win over the doubters, the Welsh government is launching a 12-week consultation to hear all views.

Huw Irranca-Davies, the minister for children and social care, said: “We all want to give our children the best start in life. As a parent of three boys myself, I know being a parent can sometimes be a challenging experience. Children do not come with an instruction manual and sometimes parents need guidance and support to help them raise healthy and happy children.

“Our knowledge of what children need to grow and thrive has developed considerably over the last 20 years. We now know that physical punishment can have negative long-term impacts on a child’s life chances and we also know it is an ineffective punishment.

He added: “While physically punishing children was accepted as normal practice in previous generations, we know that it is increasingly being seen as less acceptable and parents feel less comfortable.

“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.”

On the consultation, he added: “I am aware there are differing views on this legislation; this consultation provides an opportunity for everyone to have their say to help us try to address concerns as the legislation develops.”

In October the Scottish government confirmed its support for a ban on smacking, a move backed by the children’s commissioners of the four UK nations.Ends