Call for evidence launched on the use of crossbows
8-week exercise will look at whether tougher rules are needed
Part of government’s plan to tackle serious violence on our
streets
A call for evidence has been launched to ask whether current
crossbow laws need to be strengthened, as the government
continues to step up action to prevent violence on our
streets.
Under current legislation, it is illegal for anyone under 18 to
purchase or possess a crossbow, and anyone who carries a crossbow
in public without reasonable excuse faces up to four years behind
bars.
The government is considering going further, launching a call for
evidence to ask whether these rules are tough enough.
Strengthened rules could include a licensing scheme to
protect public safety police checks for anyone
looking to purchase a crossbow.
This would mean that crossbows are policed under regulations
similar to that of firearms.
Safeguarding Minister, said:
“Crossbows are used rarely in violent crime in this country but
they can be highly dangerous.
“We’re doing all we can to ensure we have the appropriate
measures in place against any risks these potentially dangerous
weapons may pose.
“I encourage the public and those in the industry to come forward
to share their views so we can have the most accurate picture and
take any necessary action to keep our streets safe.”
Whilst crossbow incidents are rare – there were fewer than 10
homicides by crossbow between 2011 and 2021 – it is clear that
when used as a weapon, crossbows do pose a risk and the
government is determined to ensure any needed safeguards are in
place to keep the public safe.
Today’s announcement comes after former Home Secretary,
MP, commissioned a review on
controls following the incident at Windsor Castle on Christmas
Day in 2021 where a 19-year-old man was arrested on the grounds
of the castle allegedly carrying the weapon. Following his
arrest, Jaswant Singh Chail was sentenced to nine years in prison
with a further five years on extended licence.
The call for evidence builds on the government’s work
to prevent serious violence and stop weapons ending up in the
hands of criminals, and follows last month’s announcement that
zombie-style knives and machetes will be banned.
Through the Criminal Justice Bill, the government will give the
police more powers to seize knives and increases prison sentences
for anyone selling knives to anyone under 18 or possessing a
banned weapon.
Today’s call for evidence will last 8 weeks to allow time to
gather information which will then be considered by the Home
Office as it assesses the need for further tightening of controls
on weapons.
Notes to editors
