What's happened
Starting August 26, 2024, individuals in England and Wales can surrender zombie-style knives and machetes to police without penalty. This initiative precedes a new law banning these weapons from September 24, aimed at reducing knife crime amid concerns from victims' families about its effectiveness.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to BBC News, the new legislation aims to close loopholes that previously allowed the possession of zombie knives. Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson emphasized the need for tighter restrictions, stating, "There is no legitimate need for a weapon of this kind to be in our homes or on our streets." In contrast, the mother of a stabbing victim expressed skepticism about the law's effectiveness, highlighting that other knives could still be accessible. This sentiment is echoed in multiple reports, indicating a divide between government assurances and public concerns about safety.
How we got here
The UK government is implementing a ban on zombie-style knives and machetes due to rising knife crime. This follows a previous attempt in 2016 that failed due to loopholes. The new law aims to close these gaps and enhance public safety.
More on these topics