Is it time for the UK rank and file police officers to carry a firearm?

Posted by Philster07@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 78 comments

After watching the footage from the Hainault sword attacker and in general an increase in violent crimes (see Nottingham terror attacks, London Bridge etc) is it time we entrust the tank and file with a side arm?

Specifically on Hainault, 2 officers were stabbed and it could have been two more dead. If they had firearms the threat could have been neutralised more effectively without putting officers and members of the public in arms way.

Sources:

https://news.sky.com/video/share-13389226

https://news.sky.com/story/blade-split-my-hand-wide-open-police-officer-slashed-in-hainault-sword-attack-speaks-out-13389176