2 June 2004

Maharey corrects National’s misinformation on smacking

The government is not considering changing the law on the physical punishment of children – despite assertions made today by National’s Family spokesperson Judith Collins.

Social Development and Employment Minister Steve Maharey has reiterated the government’s position, announced publicly last May, to not make any change to section 59 of the Crimes Act, which provides a legal defence for adults to physically punish children. Cabinet will reconsider this issue in December 2005.

ENDS

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