Home Office proposes pub weapon searches
Pubs and clubs could be forced to carry out knife and weapon searches under new proposals from the Home Office.
The measures are contained within a package of anti-violence measures announced by the Government which also contains formal notification of the Government’s plans to increase the age at which people can legally buy knives to 18. This would bring knives in line with the sale of fireworks and alcohol.
Police will also be able to require certain licensed premises – such as pubs and clubs where there has been trouble – to search for offensive weapons on entry.
New categories of knifes will be added to the list of banned offensive weapons – reflecting what the police have found being used in crime.
Headteachers will also be able to search pupils for knives.
Announcing the plans, Home Secretary David Blunkett, said: “While the number of incidents involving knives remains low, I share the concern of the public about this issue. I am determined to tackle knife-related violence to help ensure the safety of our communities.
“The Government is seriously considering strengthening the law to help get knives off our streets. Bringing in a ban on under-18s buying knives – as at present with alcohol and fireworks – will play a key part in this, as will action by Education Secretary Charles Clarke on tackling knives in schools. The proposals would boost the powers police already have, and are already using, to search people for weapons.”
Commander Simon Foy, speaking for the Metropolitan Police, said: “The Met is saying enough is enough. There is an unacceptable level of knife related violence taking place on our streets.
“In London, we are rolling out a range of tactics that are designed not just to arrest and convict offenders but to deter young people from, and to educate them about the potentially lethal dangers of carrying knives.
“Working with all our partners, the Met is determined to take this operation forward. Using intelligence we will mount operations making the best possible use of our officers and available technology – sending a clear message that knives on the streets of London will not be tolerated by the police or the community.”
The announcement comes before Mr Blunkett meets police chiefs and community groups in the fifth meeting of the gun crime round table.
