Shocking statistics obtained by The Courier under freedom of information legislation reveal the number of people convicted in Perth and Kinross for carrying a knife has doubled in just one year.
Local politicians described the rise “alarming”, and backed tougher sentencing for offenders.
They cited the rise as evidence of Scotland’s “soft touch” justice system, saying an increase in convictions merely serves to show penalties are not harsh enough to deter youngsters from arming themselves with potentially deadly blades.
Figures requested from the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal’s Service (COPFS) show that 32 people were convicted for carrying a knife at Perth Sheriff Court in 2008-09, compared to 16 in 2007-08.
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser told The Courier the statistics were “sad, but not surprising.”
He also blamed the dramatic increase on the Scottish Government, insisting it has been “woefully inadequate” in tackling the issue of knife crime in recent years.
“It is alarming to learn that the number of people convicted for carrying a knife in Perth and Kinross has doubled over the last year,” he said.
“I do commend Tayside Police for catching more people with these dangerous weapons, but the statistics are nevertheless worrying.”
Mr Fraser believes most law-abiding citizens back tougher mandatory sentences for any individuals found in possession of a blade.
“It is sadly not surprising to learn that there are a number of people prepared to carry a knife in Perth and Kinross,” he added.
In some areas of Scotland the carrying of a blade is endemic and, while that is clearly not the case in Perth and Kinross, the fact that the number of offenders has rocketed quite so dramatically is a cause for concern.
“The Conservatives want to see tough mandatory sentencing for anyone carrying a knife,” Mr Fraser said.
Meanwhile, Conservative candidate for Perth and North Perthshire, Peter Lyburn, pledged to push for tougher sentencing if he is elected on Thursday.
“Conservatives want to abolish early release, so our proposal for two-year mandatory sentences for anyone caught carrying a knife would actually mean two years,” he said.
“I believe that if you go out with a knife, you should be sent to prison.”
A meeting at the Scottish Parliament last year heard concerns the country had “collectively failed” to tackle the issue.