Samurai swords banned

Caravan and motor home owners keen on collecting souvenirs should be aware that the regulations for importing ceremonial weapons have been tightened.

The Home Office has announced that Samurai swords will be reclassified as offensive weapons from April 2008, and that their sale, hire or import will be banned.

There are some exemptions to the ruling, but the announcement follows a 12-week consultation which saw police, collectors, traders, victims' groups and martial arts enthusiasts all contribute to the process.

Home Office minister Vernon Coaker said that it's important to remember that the swords are dangerous, and they have been used in many crimes. An estimated 80 attacks involving cheap, imitation samurai swords have been recorded in recent years, and at least five people have died in those incidents.

"In the wrong hands, samurai swords are dangerous weapons - there have been a number of high-profile, serious incidents involving the swords in England and Wales," he said.

Once the law is implemented, offenders face a jail term of up to six months or a maximum fine of £5,000.

15/12/2007 22:46:01