THE OFFENSIVE Weapons Bill aimed at the outlawing of several classifications of knives and related instruments appears to be now in a state of stalemate in the parliamentary system, with Government and Opposition taking divergent views.
Precedent seems to suggest that in the end the Government will have its way. But we think that this is hardly the point. For a law to be effective the acid test is the extent to which we can reasonably expect that it will be either policed or policeable and we are not satisfied that in the instant case that test can be met.
In the first place it seems that much will hinge on knife definition. A standard penknife traditionally carried by many as a tool or a gadget for such purposes as peeling fruit is just as capable of being used as an offensive weapon. The same is true of any other sharp instrument such as an ice-pick or a pair of scissors.
Under the circumstances we may expect that there could be serious disagreement between a zealous policeman and the citizen. This in turn could significantly exasperate tension between communities and law enforcement.
We are not disputing the fact that these instruments have figured prominently in serious crimes, but as has been acknowledged this is mainly in domestic situations. Thus it appears to us that the employment of these weapons takes place more frequently in the home. Will the police under the proposed Act be authorised or be obliged to take their campaign indoors as well?
We are all for the employment of measures to reduce crime but we have serious reservations that this law will do much to curb premeditated intent; and on the other hand that it can become yet another source of tension between the police and the public. After all we have severe laws against guns, but gun slaughter continues.
We endorse those views also which draw attention to the right of self-defence of the law-abiding citizen. It is an uncaring government who would rob the innocent of that basic right.
The opinions on this page, except for the above, do not necessarily reflect the views of The Gleaner.
