PCC Donna Jones calls on Home Secretary to commission urgent review of knife legislation

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has today renewed calls for the government to commission an urgent review of legislation governing religious exemptions for bladed articles carried in public, following fresh calls from the family of Henry Nowak.

The Commissioner has written to the Home Secretary welcoming indications that the government is considering the issue, but warning that consideration alone is no longer sufficient.

Donna Jones wrote to the Prime Minister twice in June following the conclusion of Vickrum Digwa’s trial, raising concerns about gaps and ambiguities within the current legislation. Despite repeated calls for action, no formal review has yet been commissioned.

In recent months, the Commissioner has worked closely with Henry’s family, supporting their campaign for change and exploring practical solutions that protect public safety while respecting religious freedoms.

The Commissioner has also met with members of the local Sikh community and Sikh elders to better understand the significance of the kirpan as an article of faith, and to ensure that any future legislative changes continue to protect the rights of Sikh communities in law.

PCC Donna Jones said: “I welcome the fact that the Home Secretary is now considering this issue. However, her statement does not go far enough. Henry’s murder must be the turning point to commission a review.

“I wrote to the Prime Minister twice in June following the outcome of Vickrum Digwa’s trial and I’m yet to receive a reply. I highlighted the concerns raised by this case and the need for clarity in the law.

“Despite the immense grief the Nowak family continue to endure, they have approached their call for a national review of the legislation with remarkable dignity and respect.

“They want a clear, common-sense law that protects the public and clear national guidance that enables the police to enforce the law with confidence.

“In the last six months I’ve had continued dialogue with the Sikh community and I recognise the importance of the kirpan as a sacred article of faith. I have been clear any review must be undertaken in partnership with Sikh communities and enshrine their rights in law so they can legally carry a small, safe kirpan.

“The current position of a sweeping exemption leaves too much ambiguity and room for interpretation. The Home Secretary now has an opportunity to turn those calls into meaningful change.

“The greatest legacy we can give Henry is to ensure no other family has to endure the same unimaginable loss.”