1The Minister of Education Russell Marshall wants to phase out corporal punishment in schools by next year, because he says it is inconsistent with social progress in New Zealand. He is supported by the Primary Teachers Association and the primary teachers' union the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI). However, a Heylen poll carried out last year showed overwhelming support for corporal punishment in schools. Does it lead to violence and inhibit learning as critics of the practice claim, or is it a quick, clean and effective way of maintaining discipline? A look at how students view corporal punishment, followed by a studio debate on the issue.