The British supermarket chain has confirmed the decision of removing single kitchen knives from sale in all its stores by the end of April.
In Bournemouth, locals have doubts about whether this action will make a difference or not.
The measure comes in response to rising concerns about knife-crime in the UK, particularly those involving teenagers.
Nick Jones, Asda’s Senior Vice President, said: “We know single knives are the most common knife products to be stolen and that is why we have chosen to remove these items from our stores. This is an issue that means a lot to our customers and to our colleagues, and we are committed to playing our small part in helping to make our communities safer for all.”
Knife theft is most common in single products
He added: “Whilst our sales of knives are relatively small, our data shows knife theft is most common in single products and that is why we have chosen to remove these items from our stores.”
Knife Amnesty
Dorset Police is also running a knife amnesty campaign this week where people can drop off unwanted knives and bladed items at Weymouth, Poole, Bournemouth and Blandford police stations.
Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, Martyn Underhill, said: “Knife crime goes beyond policing. It’s a public health issue. It’s an education issue. It’s an attitude issue. Above all, it’s a community issue, so let’s all get involved in the conversation.”
Latest figures from the Office for National Statistics show that, between October 2017 and September 2018, Dorset Police investigated 249 offences with knives or other sharp weapons.
The law on knives and legitimate reasons for carrying a knife can be found here.
