Britain toughens knife laws in bid to curb rise in violent crime by teenagers

"This new law will cover many ordinary pocket knives. jcm"

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

LONDON - Britain is toughening laws on carrying knives in an attempt to halt a rise in violent slayings by teenagers.

At least 16 teenagers have been killed in London alone this year, most from stabbings.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown says it's unacceptable for British teenagers to carry knives.

He has said he'll scrap the system of issuing cautions in some cases.

Now all offenders over age 16 will be prosecuted for carrying a blade more than 7.6 centimetres long.

They face up to four years in prison if convicted.

James Morton

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