We, the petitioners, would like the Government to give serious consideration to the legalisation of non-lethal self-defence Weapons such as pepper sprays and/or taser devices. With such tools at the public's disposal, individuals can protect themselves against violent crimes more reliably.

In the wake of the LNER Huntingdon train attack, innocent civilians require a means to defend themselves. The police response was rapid and at scale, but no response will ever be as fast as an individual's reaction in the moment. Had non-lethal weapons been available to the passengers of this service, fewer people would have been injured.

The women of Britain in particular require the means to protect themselves from aggressors, without having to rely on the police or other men. It is the right of all civilians to walk freely through the streets in safety and security. This right is not extended to women, who risk the threat of violence whenever they leave home, especially at night. Pepper sprays and tasers level the playing field, making self-defence achievable for all women.

Use of these weapons should be reserved exclusively for self-defence as is the use of all forms of violence currently. Incorrect use of these weapons would be considered assault, and punished accordingly.