Closed petition: Ban on knife possession except for licensed/trade purposes & increase sentences

Closed on 20 July 2025

We want the Government to introduce an outright ban on knife possession, except for licensed or trade purposes, and mandatory minimum jail terms of four years for illegal possession of combat knife, swords and general blades in public.

We believe stricter measures are needed to address the devastating impact of knife crime in England and Wales. We think an outright ban on knife possession, except for specific purposes, and mandatory jail terms regardless of first offence, could significantly reduce the availability of knives, deter offenders, and protect our communities. This is an epidemic and has to stop. We believe consequences have to be seen to prevent the deaths of more young children.