Operational Guidance

Complete list of weapons prohibited under CJA 1988 s.141 and related legislation, including recent additions and exemptions.

An overview of knife and weapon offences and enforcement powers applicable in prisons, young offender institutions, and other custodial settings.

Import and export controls for knives and offensive weapons, including Border Force powers and customs offences under CEMA 1979.

An overview of the relevant offences and powers relating to knives applicable to officers on the street.

Legal framework for online knife sales, including delivery requirements introduced by the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 and platform responsibilities.

Legal framework for knife possession on school and further education premises, including staff search and seizure powers under the Education Act 1996.

The limited legal framework for knife possession in private places, focusing on prohibited weapons which are the only type unlawful in private settings.

Legal framework governing knife sales by retailers, including age verification requirements, defences, and Trading Standards enforcement powers.