Allow licensed pepper spray for DBS-cleared adults to improve safety.

Background

Amend the Firearms Act to allow licensed OC pepper spray for adults who pass enhanced DBS checks and a mandatory training course, with strict storage rules, limits on strength, independent testing, and strong penalties for misuse, to help improve women’s safety.

Additional details

Women are disproportionately targeted for violent and sexual offences, and many feel unsafe travelling alone, especially at night. Current prevention measures are not enough. Other democratic countries safely allow licensed OC spray with checks and training. A strictly regulated licence system here could deter attackers, improve personal safety, and give women an evidence-based, non-lethal, last-resort defensive option.