East London Shops Urged to Clampdown on Acid Sales

Shopkeepers in east London have been urged to refuse to sell cleaning products containing corrosive substances to customers under 21.

The move comes after a spate of violent acid attacks in the capital. Now, customers buying the products will be asked for ID in shops taking part in the trial.

Last month five attackers launched a 90-minute rampage, injuring five people across Hackney and Islington. There have also been attacks in Bethnal Green and outside Harrods in Knightsbridge, in recent weeks.

Police figures reveal that east London is at the centre of the epidemic, with Newham, Barking and Dagenham, Tower Hamlets and Hackney having the highest number of acid attacks in the last three years.

Calls have been made for the government to change laws on the sale of cleaning products containing acid.

Mayor of Hackeny Philip Glanville, said:

"I'm glad that the Home Office is considering tough new restrictions on corrosive substances. We have taken the initiative by asking shop keepers to voluntarily ID customers and report suspicious sales."

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