Talking of Sgian Dhu's

[kiltedjaz]

What with the new laws in the UK about knive's, I've decided not to take any more chances wearinmg my Sgian Dhu outdoors......
Iechyd Da
Derek

I e-mailed Kent Police about wearing a Sgian Dhu this morning...

I am a Scot, living in Folkestone.
In view of the recent high profile knife campaign/amnesty, what is the position for somebody like me who regularly wears a kilt and Sgian Dhu?
Could I be prosecuted for carrying an ‘offensive weapon’ or similar offence?
A few years ago, I asked the same question at my, then, local Police Station in Bournemouth and was told that it was acceptable because it was a recognised part of a traditional National costume.
My Sgian Dhu is real, not a fake (non-bladed) and is always carried in the top of my right hose (sock), with the decorative handle showing.

Many thanks
James Campbell


Here is their reply (sent within 10 minutes)...


Dear Mr Campbell

It is an offence to have an article in a public place which has a blade or is sharply pointed (S139 (1) Criminal Justice Act 1988.

However there can be a defence

if it can be shown it was part of a national custume - this includes someone in Highland dress with a skean dhu.

I hope this assists

Helen Bland
Chief of Staff