Plans to restrict the sale of knives part of UK-wide consultation on violet crime
The proposals also look to address a recent rise in acid attacks
Last updated 14th Oct 2017
Plans to tackle violent crime in Scotland are part of a nationwide consultation on offensive weapons being launched by the UK Government.
The proposals could see restrictions put in place on the online sale of knives, meaning they could no longer be delivered to a private residential address, and must instead be collected at a place where age ID can be checked.
Other measures include allowing police to seize offensive weapons which are already banned in public places from private properties, and updating the current legislation on the definition of flick knives.
The consultation is in response to a recent rise in police-recorded knife crimes across the UK, as well as the emergence of attacks involving acid and other corrosive substances in England.
It looks new legislation making it an offence to be in possession of a corrosive substance in public without a good or lawful reason. It would place the onus on the individual caught in possession to explain why they are carrying it, rather than on the police to prove that it was intended to cause injury.
Home Secretary, Amber Rudd said:
“All forms of violent crime are totally unacceptable, which is why we are taking action to restrict access to offensive weapons and crack down on those who carry acids with the intent to do harm.
“Acid attacks can devastate lives and leave victims with scars both emotional and physical. That is why we are banning the sale of the most harmful corrosive substances to under-18s, and introducing minimum custodial sentences to those who repeatedly carry corrosive substances without good reason. We are sending a message that the cowards who use these as weapons will not escape the full force of the law.
UK Government Minister for Scotland Lord Duncan said:
“The UK Government is acting decisively to restrict the purchasing of acid and other offensive weapons. We are determined we will do all we can to protect the public.
“I encourage people to participate in the consultation - make your voice heard and help create legislation that can stamp out this scourge."
The consultation is open until December 9th and can be found here.