In their latest measure to supposedly ‘clampdown on knife crime’, Labour’s Home Secretary Jacqui Smith has announced plans to use shock tactics against young offenders caught in possession of a knife.
Her ridiculous proposal is to escort young people who are caught carrying a knife around A & E (accident and emergency) wards so they come face to face with victims of knife crime. They will also meet with victims’ families and attend prison visits.
Jacqui Smith said: “I am very keen that we make people face up to the consequences.
“In my book it is tougher than simply saying there is one, simple solution and that is everyone goes to prison.”
Like many politicians she is so out of touch with reality. She obviously hasn’t witnessed the trauma of a knife attack first hand, or lost a loved one due to an unprovoked attack.
Furthermore, doesn’t she understand that many of these young offenders are fully aware of the crime they are committing and the consequences of their actions. Some of these offenders have stabbed or been stabbed, witnessed stabbings and possibly even attended a funeral caused by such an attack.
So where’s the shock tactic?
I agree, sending young offenders to prison isn’t the answer, but at least it will stop them roaming the streets looking for more victims. I am more interested in a safer society, than what is the right thing to do for those who choose to assault innocent victims.
All the time the punishment doesn’t fit the crime, knife crime will get worse in this country.
Does anyone know why knife crime is so prevalent in the UK compared to other European countries?
1 comment so far
1 soren // Jul 14, 2008 at 8:22 pm
Its alright for Jaqui Smith she is surrounded by bodyguards even when she nips down to the kebab shop.