Hermon calls for reform of Knife Laws
Ulster Unionist MP Lady Hermon has called on the Government to review criminal laws to counter knife crime and the carrying of knives in public. Speaking from her North Down constituency office, she said:
“Knife crime and the use of knives in violent attacks continue to be serious problems in Northern Ireland. Far too often, by the time the individual carrying the knife is apprehended, the damage is done and the unfortunate victim has suffered serious injury.”
“There is only so much we can expect from the police in these circumstances. Instead, it’s time the Northern Ireland Office undertook a review of criminal law in this area.”
The Ulster Unionist Home Affairs Spokesperson continued:
“Some consideration must be given to a system of licensing for those who require knives as tools of their trade, which restricts when and where possession is permitted. Anyone else would fall foul of strict liability. This would have a much greater deterrent effect upon those who currently take the chance and carry knives. They would no longer escape conviction by exploiting reasonable excuse type defences.”
“The issue is simple; if knives are carried, they are likely to be used. So, if we stop people carrying knives, we can stop the serious and fatal injuries that we know knives cause.”