Backbenchers threaten smacking rebellion

Rebel Labour MPs are today preparing to defy the Government and vote for an outright ban on smacking.

They say they will defy the party whip by voting against watered-down proposals allowing parents to administer "mild" smacks.

Ministers now face a bitter battle to push the plans through the Commons.

Labour hardliners made the threat hours after the Lords voted to outlaw all but the gentlest slaps. The Government hoped the compromise proposals - which mean parents can still use very mild physical punishment - would satisfy children's campaigners and protect it from accusations of promoting a nanny state.

The proposals are expected to be put to a vote in the Commons within weeks.

Today senior Labour MP David Hinchliffe, chairman of the health select committee, claimed at least 100 backbenchers would vote the plans down. Mr Hinchliffe, who last year led a backbench rebellion over foundation hospitals, revealed that he had the support of a "significant" number of ministers.

He said: "I genuinely hope the Government will have the common sense to allow a free vote." The rebels are now likely to introduce an alternative amendment to the proposals calling for a total ban on smacking.

The proposals have sparked confusion among parents and are bitterly opposed by many teachers and lawyers.

The new legislation is based on an amendment to the Children's Bill by Liberal Democrat peer Lord Lester put forward as an alternative to a hardline amendment by peers who wanted an outright ban.