NPCC welcomes new proposals in fight against knife crime

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for knife crime, Commander Stephen Clayman, said:

“I welcome these proposals as they offer a robust and powerful response to deal with those who seek to use knives for violence. Ultimately, these measures provide a greater means to protect the public and safeguard our communities.
 
“The proposals follow extensive collaboration between the Home Office and the NPCC National Knife Crime working group. Together, we have worked tirelessly to develop practical, sustainable solutions to remove these lethal weapons from our streets.
 
“This consultation period provides the opportunity for the public, businesses, and relevant organisations to contribute their experience and expertise in shaping these proposals. By working together, we can achieve a stronger approach to tackling knife crime.” 

The proposals include:
 
1. Banning certain types of machetes and knives which seem to have no practical use and seem to be designed to look menacing and suitable for combat.
 
2. Giving the power to seize and retain/destroy certain bladed articles held in private if the police are in private property lawfully and they have a reasonable belief that they will be used in serious crime.
 
3. Increasing the maximum penalty to two years for the offences of importation, manufacture, sale, and general supply of prohibited and dangerous weapons and sale of knives to persons under 18 years old.
 
4. Consider whether the Criminal Justice System treat possession in public of prohibited knives and offensive weapons more seriously.
 
5. The introduction of a new possession offence of bladed articles with the intention to endanger life or to cause fear of violence.

You can read the full consultation document and make your voice heard at the Gov.uk website