The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy, Janet Finch-Saunders MS, has urged for clarity from the Welsh Government as to what discussions it has undertaken with the UK Government to confront concerns over knife crime. The intervention follows the publication of a harrowing account of a recent knife attack in Llandudno and the Member’s reporting of an incident in Llandudno Junction which has been shared on social media.
In a Written Question to the Counsel General, Janet asked:
“Will the Counsel General confirm what conversations he has undertaken with law officers in the UK Government to ensure that police forces across Wales have the necessary powers and funding to confront knife crime?”
North Wales Police recorded 277 offences involving a knife or a sharp weapon in 2019-20, Office for National Statistics data shows. That was more than double the 101 reported in 2012-13, when comparable records were first published. The ONS said despite improved crime recording methods, increases are likely to reflect a real rise in the number of knife and sharp weapon offences nationally.
Commenting, Janet said:
“North Wales remains one of the safest parts of the UK, but unfortunately knife crime incidents do occur in the area. The impact of this crime can be deeply felt, with many victims left dealing with the emotional consequences of threats or attacks for years after an incident takes place.
“Given that recent intelligence in the region has supported the authorisation of a Section 60 search area, and on receipt of concerns by local constituents, I have urged the Counsel General to undertake discussions with law officers in the UK Government to ensure that our local policing campaigns have the powers and funding support required.
“But while policing can help to enforce the law and keep people safe, senior officers have always made clear that it is the community working together which will ultimately make the difference. Conversations with friend and families around knife crime and its impacts can help institute change.
“So, if you are worried about someone you know carrying a knife, want to talk to someone about knife crime or ask advice please call 101. Residents are also reminded to call 999 in an emergency.”
According to North Wales Police, carrying a knife in a public place can result in a maximum prison sentence of four years, depending on the circumstances, and there is a minimum sentence of six months if a person is found carrying one more than once.
ENDS
Photo: Janet Finch-Saunders MS/AS
