Policing and Crime Minister Sarah Jones has challenged retailers to stop using combat and violence to market knives and to improve safeguards around their sale, bringing shops and online marketplaces together for two summits.
The Labour MP for Croydon West hosted the two summits on 8 October, involving businesses, law enforcement, regulators and campaigners.
Online marketplaces pressed on compliance
Online retailers and marketplaces were pressed on compliance with the law and the further steps they could take against irresponsible advertising.
High-street businesses were asked to strengthen how knives are displayed and sold, and to support a renewed Responsible Retailers’ Scheme. The scheme is a voluntary code promoting better practice.
Southport survivor addresses summits
Leanne Lucas, the teacher who survived the Southport attack, addressed the summits alongside other campaigners calling for safer retail standards.
Jones said everyone involved in selling knives has a responsibility to prevent harm. The meetings focused on practical changes across online and physical shops, rather than announcing a new blanket ban on kitchen knives.
