§ 24. Mr. Doigasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he proposes to take to discourage the carrying of offensive weapons and thereby reduce the number of crimes of violence.
§ Mr. Harry EwingThe maximum fine which may be imposed on summary conviction of the offence of carrying an offensive weapon in a public place is being raised from £200 to £1,000 by a provision of the Criminal Law Act 1977 which we hope to bring into effect this summer. The sheriff court can impose up to three months' imprisonment as an alternative or additional penalty on summary conviction and, on conviction on indictment, a fine of any amount and/or up to two years' imprisonment.