UNLAWFUL KNIFE SALES

Prosecutions for knife sales to under 18s fall despite rise in violence

The number of prosecutions against those found selling knives under age has fallen according to information obtained by Shadow Home Affairs Minister James Brokenshire.  In 2007 – the last year for which figures are available - 32 people were prosecuted or cautioned for the offence of selling a knife or other article with a blade to a young person under age.  In 2006 the number was 45. 

In the financial year 2007-08, there were 271 fatal stabbings recorded by police in England and Wales where the weapon was a pointed or sharp instrument – the highest number of homicides since records began 30 years ago.

Commenting James Brokenshire said:

"At a time when knife homicides have reached record levels, it's astonishing that action against those selling knives under age is falling.  Many retailers do act responsibly and do comply with the law, but those who don't need to know that firm action will be taken against them.  There needs to be a zero tolerance approach to sales of knives to under 18s.”

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