
The new “two strikes” sentence will apply to any 16- and 17-year-olds who have been convicted of a second knife offence.
Adults will be handed a minimum six-month prison sentence for a second offence.
A law was passed earlier this year to allow the minimum custodial sentence to be introduced, and the government has now confirmed that the changes will come into effect from 17 July.
Campaign groups have previously warned that the new sentencing rules could result in about 200 more young people in custody.
Policing minister Mike Penning said: "We are already making sure knife offenders are properly punished, keeping more off the streets for longer and making our communities safer.
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