Idris Elba Calls for Innovative Solutions to Knife Crime, Including Blunting or Banning Knives
Actor Idris Elba has spoken out about the need for innovative solutions to address the issue of knife crime in the UK. In an interview with the BBC, Elba, who is set to release a documentary on the subject, stated that the UK must consider prevention methods such as blunting or banning knives in order to reduce the number of knife-related incidents.
According to Elba, 25% of knives used in violent crimes are typically kitchen knives, which are often used in domestic situations. He suggested that such knives could be banned, and those who want to keep them would need to obtain a license. Elba also proposed that kitchen knives could be designed without points, reducing the risk of harm.
Elba pointed out that there are loopholes in the current system, such as the existence of “heritage knives” and “ninja swords”, which allow people to obtain these types of knives. He argued that a licensing program for such knives would be a “small contribution to society” and would help to reduce the vulnerability of children and young people.
Elba also emphasized the need for social media platforms to take responsibility for their role in promoting or enabling knife crime. He stated that big tech companies need to be held accountable for their policies and actions, and that they should not be allowed to advertise knives to young people.
The actor’s views on the issue have been met with support from some quarters, including the Church of England, judges, top trauma doctors, and psychiatrists, who have backed a ban on the sale of pointed kitchen knives. Elba’s documentary, which features discussions with authorities, families, and victims of knife crime, is set to be released soon.