§ 22. Mr. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that there have been further cases recently of the use of flick-knives for the commission of assaults; whether his attention has been drawn to the remarks of the learned judge at Durham Assizes recently that, if he could, he would make it an offence for anyone to sell flick-knives; and whether he will reconsider his decision in respect of legislation banning the sale of these knives to young persons.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerI have seen reports of some recent prosecutions arising out of the use of flick-knives; and the rider recommending prohibition of their sale which was added to their verdict by the jury and endorsed by the Judge in a recent case is now before me. I am giving the matter careful consideration, but in view of the extensive powers which the police already have to deal with this problem under the Prevention of Crimes Act, 1953, I am not at present convinced that legislation of the kind proposed by the hon. Member is necessary.
§ Mr. JannerIs not that a shocking thing? Is not the Minister aware that there have been murders committed by the use of these flick-knives since I last put the question? Is he aware that a judge said:
What an invention of the devil is a flick-knife, which unhappily so often features in crimes of violence in this country, often committed by young people.Is he aware that some of the main journals in this country, such as the Yorkshire Post, the Leicester evening papers and other papers, have had leading articles condemning the present position, and will he do something to prevent any further murders by these knives?
§ Mr. ButlerI have consulted a number of chief constables, who reply that such people as farmers, fishermen, butchers, coblers, blacksmiths and electricians use these knives. Therefore, legislation would be very difficult. I have inquired where these knives come from, and I find that a large number come from abroad. I understand from my right hon. Friend the 548 President of the Board of Trade that there are considerable difficulties in placing a ban on these particular imports. I have to rely, therefore, upon the Prevention of Crimes Act, 1953, which makes it an offence to carry a thing of this sort.
§ Mr. JannerThis is a most unsatisfactory reply. I beg to ask leave to raise this matter on the Adjournment.