Daily roundup 6 January: Smacking, parental fines, and EastEnders

Wales is considering banning parents from smacking their children, after it was announced Welsh leaders will be handed new powers allowing them to make changes to parental law. The Independent reports that if politicians go ahead with the ban, which could come into force later this year, it will be the first time the practice has ever been made illegal in Great Britain.


A primary school headmistress has announced she will fine parents whose children are late for classes. The Telegraph reports that Catherine Stalham, head of Winter Gardens Academy in Essex, has defended her policy in the face of staunch opposition from local families who say it is "ridiculous". Parents of children who consistently arrive at school later than 9am will bit hit with £60 fines, which will double if not paid within 21 days.


Television soap EastEnders has come under the spotlight over a character's "confusing" way of informing children over the death of their parents. The Mirror reports that Shelley Gilbert, founder of Grief Encounter said parents should be honest and open, using age-appropriate language and manner, in order to allow children to understand and grieve fully.


Four new major retailers have joined a voluntary agreement to prevent the underage sale of knives. The Home Office said Boots UK, the Co-op, B&Q and Aldi have committed to ensuring safeguards are in place on the sale and delivery of knives by ensuring age verification checks are robust, including regular staff training, and ensuring knives are packaged and displayed securely.


Taxi drivers, hotel staff and other "night-time" workers across London should be trained in how to spot children at risk of sexual exploitation in a bid to prevent abuse, a charity has said. The Evening Standard reports that Barnardo's said others working in pubs and bars or driving buses should also be given tips on how to spot vulnerable youngsters and create a network of "eyes and ears" watching out for their safety.