Licensing for Knife Sales - Consultation
The Government is seeking views on proposals to introduce a licensing system for sellers and importers of knives and bladed articles. This aims to strengthen knife legislation, improve enforcement, and reduce knife crime.
Key Details
Start Date: 16 December 2025
End Date: 24 February 2026
Duration: 10 weeks
Scope: UK-wide, with devolved matters agreed with administrations
Target Audience: Public, police, CPS, community groups, businesses, and organisations directly affected
How to Respond:
- Online form via GOV.UK
- Email: KnifeLicensingConsultation@homeoffice.gov.uk
- Alternative formats available for accessibility
Background
Knife crime remains a serious issue despite recent progress, with a 5% decrease in knife-enabled crime in the year ending June 2025. Current law prohibits sales to under-18s, but loopholes exist such as fraudulent online purchases.
Scotland already has a knife dealer licensing scheme; elsewhere in the UK, no such system exists. An Independent Review in February 2025 recommended registration for sellers and import licensing.
Proposals
Licensing for Knife Sellers
The proposed scheme would apply to businesses and private sellers, including second-hand and online sales. It would be administered by police, similar to firearms dealer licensing, with licences valid for 3 years (views are being sought on duration).
Licence holders would need to meet conditions including:
- Age verification policies (e.g., Challenge 25)
- Secure display and packaging
- Staff training
Breaches may lead to revocation or criminal charges.
Licensing for Knife Importers
Four options are under consideration:
- Authorised importer scheme
- Import licences for retailers only
- Licensing for all importers (including private individuals)
- Combined seller/importer licence
Enforcement would be supported by Border Force.
Enforcement
Selling or importing without a licence would be a criminal offence. Police and Trading Standards would enforce compliance.
Consultation Questions
The consultation seeks views on:
- Should businesses and private sellers require a licence?
- What licence duration is appropriate (3, 5, or 10 years)?
- Who should hold import licences?
- What is the expected impact on businesses?
Additional comments are invited.
Why It Matters
This initiative is part of the Government's commitment to halve knife crime within the next decade, focusing on prevention, enforcement, and accountability for sellers and importers.
How to Respond
You can share your views on the proposed licensing system by 24 February 2026 using one of the following methods:
- Online Form – Complete the consultation form on GOV.UK
- Email – Send your response to KnifeLicensingConsultation@homeoffice.gov.uk
- Alternative Formats – If you cannot use the online system, download a PDF version or request Easy Read, large print, Braille, or audio formats via email
Important Notes
Responses must be submitted in the provided formats. If responding on behalf of an organisation, include a summary of who you represent and how conclusions were reached. Information provided may be published or disclosed under the Freedom of Information Act.