Larkhall MSP urges Ministers to look at knife crime

Mar 27 2008

LARKHALL MSP Karen Gillon has urged Scottish Ministers to look again at the issue of knife crime.

She is concerned that despite concerted efforts by previous governments, police and others, far too many individuals still carry a weapon as a matter of course. More worryingly, many still appear only too happy to use them.

Ms Gillon said: ”I know from constituency casework and from family experience just how devastating an attack with a knife can be.

“In this area we have seen instances where children under 10-years-of-age were caught carrying a knife.

“It is time that we stamped out this culture, particularly among young men, that seems to believe carrying a knife is somehow a symbol of strength or security.”

She continued: “We must ensure we teach knife carriers their actions have consequences.

“It would appear the current law is not acting as a sufficient deterrent and I have, therefore, written to the Justice Minister Kenny McAskill asking that he reviews the law as it stands and examines the imposition of mandatory custodial sentences for unlawful possession of knives and other bladed weapons.

“I have also signed a parliamentary motion calling for such action.

“I am keen to see change happen so other innocent individuals do not become victims of this blade culture.”