New legislation has been introduced this week by Home Secretary James Cleverly to ban machetes and zombie-style knifes in their entirety.

Prior to this legislation, only weapons defined as having a cutting or serrated edge and images or words that suggest that it is to be used for the purpose of violence were illegal. Once legislation is finalised from September 2024, all machetes and zombie blades will be illegal to possess, distribute, manufacture or transport.

This comes after actor Idris Elba launched the 'Don't Stop Your Future' campaign, calling for an immediate ban on these knives. This campaign sparked a popular following in favour of the ban of these weapons in order to reduce knife crime.

A surrender scheme will be introduced ahead of the new regulations coming into force in September and the ban will also come into force alongside tougher penalties for those who possess the knives - increasing the maximum prison sentence for possession from six months to two years.

Home Secretary James Cleverly MP commented:

“When I became Home Secretary, I made the immediate decision to go further to put forward this secondary legislation to support what we’ve already done to make the possession of zombie knives illegal and to close that loophole.”

Rebecca supports this legislation, responding:

“I’m very pleased we’re taking this action to get these knives off the streets and provide reassurances to people across Castle Point.”

If you are concerned that yourself or someone you know is suffering from involvement with gangs or knife crime, you can access the Essex Violence and Vulnerability Unit’s resource guide here.