TRACY GILBERT MP: KNIFE CRIME CANNOT BE NORMALISED – PREVENTION MUST GO FURTHER

Tracy Gilbert MP has spoken out about the impact of knife crime in Edinburgh North and Leith, warning that violence must never become accepted as part of daily life and that stronger preventative action is urgently needed.

Ms Gilbert was speaking following Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar’s commitment to strengthen knife safety measures across Scotland, including tougher regulation around the sale of knives.

Tracy Gilbert MP said:

“Knife crime cannot be normalised. The impact it has on families and communities is devastating, and the loss of John McNab is something that continues to be felt deeply across our area. No family should ever have to endure that pain.”

Ms Gilbert paid tribute to John’s mum, Lisa Petrie, whose campaigning has led to bleed kits being installed in public spaces across the constituency and beyond.

“Lisa’s strength and determination in the face of unimaginable loss is extraordinary. Her work to bring bleed kits into our community is genuinely lifesaving, and it has already made a real difference. It shows what community action can achieve when people come together.”

However, Ms Gilbert stressed that while bleed kits are vital, they are not a substitute for prevention.

“Bleed kits save lives, but they exist because violence has already occurred. Families should not be left to lead campaigns after tragedy strikes. We must do more to prevent knives from being used as weapons in the first place.”

Ms Gilbert welcomed Anas Sarwar’s commitment to enhanced knife safety measures and action to support young people.

“It is reassuring that Anas Sarwar has committed to taking knife safety seriously. Strengthening controls on knife sales, alongside action on youth violence and mental health, is an important step towards breaking this cycle.”

“Everyone in Edinburgh North and Leith deserves to feel safe in their own community.”