The Government urgently needs a new approach to tackling acid attacks - Diane Abbott

Diane Abbott MP, Labour’s Shadow Home Secretary, responding to the acid attacks that took place across London yesterday evening, said: 

“The recent spate of acid attacks have shocked the nation, but sadly they are nothing new. With a steady rise in attacks since 2010 and a steep increase of 70 per cent from 2015 to 2016, it is clear that the Government urgently needs a new approach to tackling this heinous crime. "Just like knives and guns, acid is being used in murders, robberies and rapes. The problem is the weapon of choice is often a common household product. With very few prosecutions it is clear that we do not have the tools necessary to investigate and prevent these attacks. "While the Tories arrogantly insist that they have protected the police budget, the reality is they have cut numbers by over 20,000, leaving our forces overstretched as they work tirelessly to keep the public and our communities safe.”

Hi, could an introduction in a new law to tackle the problem help? For example if you are found carrying a small quantity of acid in a public area for no real reason this would carry the same offence and seriousness as carrying weapons such as knives. Also possibly introduce a new licensing law that you must hold a licence to be able to buy and handle strong acid. This needs to be a restricted sale item. But yes, unfortunately you can make strong acid using common household items.

Regards Mike