In England and Northern Ireland, it is legal for a guardian or parent to physically discipline their child if it is “reasonable” punishment – but the Children Act 2004 made assault illegal of a child causing actual or serious bodily harm.

The previous Conservative government said parents should be trusted to discipline their children and that there were “clear laws” to prevent violence.

The Department for Education told the BBC earlier this week that it is now “taking a close look” at legislative changes in Scotland and Wales, which came into force in 2020 and 2022 respectively, to see what might be made in England.

In a post on .

“If we are serious about keeping every child safe, it is time for England to take this necessary step,” she said.

“Too many children have been hurt or killed by the people who should love and care for them most.”