I agree nickg. If the police just announced they were putting metal detectors into train stations like they have been doing in Scotland, it would be harder for the public to swallow. But if they show thousands of knives on TV, then people are more likely to accept it.
As already mentioned, you can take a knife into the police station at any time for disposal, amnesty or not. From what I saw on TV very few were actually illegal (Gravity knives, flick knives etc) As far as the amnesty goes, I cant see the criminals hading there knives in, so I doubt it will make a difference to the people that will actually use one.
Knife crime is a problem in Scotland, I understand what they are trying to do, I think it is more about raising awareness about the knife carrying culture. I agree what they are trying to do, but not how they are doing it. They are making out that anyone carrying any type of knife is some kind of criminal. It reminds me of the Monty python joke. How do you cure a parrot with tooth ache?, Chop its head off
I cannot help but feel that this is another one of our freedoms stamped on.
I am a law abiding member of the public, I do not have a criminal record. However cannot help feeling anxious about carrying a knife when I have legitimate reason. I dont have a car and use public transport to get around. I wanted to take my mora to work to sharpen it, as well as have a go at making a knife. We have a great workshop, forge etc. I found myself worried that I would get stopped at the train station, and given the media hype and pressure on the police etc they would not believe me.
I know we are only talking about knives, but I wonder where will it end.
I cant help but think of the film Demolition man, is that where we are heading?
Pete