There is a great deal of concern at the private ownership and sale of lethal weapons. The Police and Trading Standards Services work together to provide local traders with information to help them comply with these important controls.

Legislation

• Offensive Weapons Act 1996
• The Knives Act 1997

Age Restriction

You must be 16 years or older to buy an offensive weapon, knife, or other bladed implement.
There is new legislation which, when it comes into effect, may increase the minimum age for offensive weapons to 18 years or older.

Offences

The Offensive Weapons Act 1996 makes it illegal to sell to persons under the age of 16:

• Any knife, knife blade, or razor blade.
• Any axe.
• Any article which has a blade, or which is sharply pointed and which is made or adapted for causing injury to the person.
• The Knives Act 1997 provides for an offence to market a knife in a way which:
• indicates or suggests it is suitable for combat
• is otherwise likely to stimulate or encourage violent behaviour involving the use of a knife as a weapon

• A folding pocket knife with a blade of less than 3 inches.
• A razor blade permanently held in a cartridge or similar housing.

Maximum Penalties

• £5,000 Fine
• Up to 6 months imprisonment
• Aditionally, on indictment the maximum penalty under the Knives Act 1997 is 2 years imprisonment

Useful Links
[Note: These links will open in a new window]


Department For Education and Skills - School Security


Her Majesty's Stationery Office - Offensive Weapons Act 1966

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