Two experiences in my life have shown me that our current self-defence laws are inadequate: my stepdaughter was once followed by a gang of illegal immigrants while she was out with her friends, and they cannot go shopping without the constant fear of being harassed because these groups often loiter in areas frequented by young girls. Likewise, my mother, who used to walk to Tesco, now requires a lift because she was followed, making her feel unsafe traveling alone.

These experiences are not isolated incidents. Knife crime has been on the rise, with a record number of offences reported in England and Wales. According to the Office for National Statistics, there were over 46,000 knife-related offences in the year ending March 2020 alone. The fear of potential knife attacks has left many, especially women, feeling vulnerable and scared to go about their daily activities.

I propose that the government legalises the carrying and use of pepper spray as a means of self-defence for law-abiding citizens. Pepper spray is a non-lethal way to protect oneself and can provide a sense of security in situations where individuals feel threatened. Currently, it is illegal to carry pepper spray within the United Kingdom, classified as a Section 5 weapon under the Firearms Act 1968. However, legalising it for self-defence purposes could be a proactive step towards empowering citizens to protect themselves.

Countries such as the United States, Canada, and Germany have provisions for citizens to carry pepper spray as a means of personal protection. If implemented with appropriate guidelines and regulations, pepper spray can be a safe and effective self-defence tool in the UK as well.

I urge the government to consider this measure seriously. By legalising pepper spray, we can provide a viable solution to help reduce the fear and risk associated with knife crimes and promote a safer environment for everyone. Please sign this petition to support the legalisation of pepper spray for self-defence and make our communities safer.