The UK government has introduced stricter measures for online knife sales, requiring buyers to provide identification and proof of age. This move aims to curb the rising incidents of knife violence in the country. Online retailers will now be obligated to thoroughly verify the identity of customers purchasing knives.
The decision comes after a fatal stabbing incident in Southport last July, where the 17-year-old perpetrator had purchased the knife online. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had promised to address the issue of knife violence during his election campaign. The new measures are part of the government’s efforts to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The online knife sales regulations will require buyers to provide a valid form of identification, such as a passport, and undergo a live video verification process to confirm their age. This added layer of security aims to prevent minors from accessing knives and reduce the risk of knife-related violence.