A BAN on the slapping of children could result in ‘draconian penalties’ for parents, because some judges could impose the law with more rigour than others, a family law specialist has warned.

Child welfare groups have called for slapping to be outlawed after a survey found two in five parents admit to hitting their child.

A total of 57% of Irish adults would support a ban on slapping children, according to a recent survey.

The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children has said the Government must be extremely careful when introducing new laws on statutory rape.