The Scottish Government insisted last night it would consider whether there were lessons to be learned from the tragic death of schoolboy Bailey Gwynne “in the fullness of time”.
But the Press and Journal has discovered there are currently no plans to amend the law relating to the sale of knives in Scotland.
The teenager’s attacker, who cannot be named for legal reasons, admitted killing his fellow pupil, but was cleared of murder at the High Court in Aberdeen this week.
During the trial, the jury heard the boy carried weapons with him “every day” to school and had previously been warned about the dangers of doing so.
It also emerged he had bought the knife used in the stabbing for £40 online without having to provide his age.
Following the verdict, the Press and Journal asked the Scottish Government about the issue of the underage purchase of knives and the possibility of metal detectors being introduced in schools.
During a visit to Aberdeen after the incident, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon did not rule out the measure, but cautioned against any knee-jerk reactions.
She said she did not want youngsters “surrounded by security”, adding she was “not convinced that is something we should rush to do”.
But she added: “We equally shouldn’t rule things out.”
Last night a Scottish Government spokeswoman welcomed the independent, multi-agency review that is to take place into the circumstances of Bailey’s death.
She added: “In the fullness of time we will consider what lessons might need to be learned to further ensure the safety of our children and young people at school.
“Knife crime can have devastating consequences for families and communities and we are determined to work with national and local partners to tackle it. Our thoughts and sympathies are with everyone affected by it.
“While this incident is heart-breaking and nothing can lessen the pain for those who knew Bailey, the overwhelming majority of our pupils are well behaved and our schools are very safe places.
“Local authorities have guidance and procedures in place to ensure the safety, health and wellbeing of children and young people. Teaching staff may call the police if they have any immediate concerns about a child.”
In Scotland it is illegal to sell knives or similar products with blades or points to anyone under the age of 18.
It is, however, legal to sell cutlery and kitchen knives to those aged 16 and over.
A Scottish Government spokesman said: “Retailers are expected to ensure that customers are of legal age to buy knives. This legislation is enforced by Police Scotland and other relevant bodies.”
