Review the 'Firearms Act 1968' to remove pepper spay as a prohibited weapon.

Background

Declassify pepper spray as a prohibited weapon in order for it to be used for self-defence only. • Restrict sales to over-18s • Impose tough penalties for misuse • Provide clear guidelines/ training on lawful self-defence • Introduce a licence in order to buy it (so it's trackable)

Additional details

Violence against is a national emergency in England and Wales. And yet women and girls do not have access to adequate self-defence tools in the UK. As pepper spray is illegal they live in fear if they are attacked (as 1 in 3 women are) and defend themselves it is either not enough; or they may be prosecuted for using something as effective as pepper spray. Many European countries allow for the use of pepper spray (many need permits or have age restrictions) for self-defence.