I have not yet read today's stories about knife crime. One stabbing is one too many. I am aware of this debate. I am also aware of the way that crime statistics have been going for years under the regimes of both major political parties in the UK. Crime in general has been falling and certain crimes of violence have risen. Politicians of both parties like to posture that they are "tough on crime". Unfortunately the long term results of some of these policies have not always been fruitful. Scaring the Hell out of certain sections of the community does not always provide spectacular results when the police have to find witnesses. Remember the SPG? If you want to play political football with that one - good luck. I have better things to do.
With regard to the opening post, context is everything. I am staying off this thread now, because I believe it does Mudcat no credit.