A SHOPKEEPER has ben fined after one of his employees sold a set of knives to a 16-year-old girl.

Islington Council’s Trading Standards team brought the prosecution against K P Home Furnishings, in Junction Road, Archway, after it was caught during an undercover operation on June 3 last year.

Shop owner Khalid Pervez, 56, admitted an offence of selling knives to a person under the age of 18, and was fined �200 and ordered to pay �350 costs. The case was heard at Highbury Magistrates Court on January 13.

The council’s trading standards team works closely with Islington Police to run test purchases to make sure young people are not sold age-restricted products.

Councillor Barbara Sidnell, Islington Council’s executive member for community safety, said: “Knives in the wrong hands can cause terrible tragedies, and we will prosecute shops who break the law.

“I’d urge all shops to ask for identification if they have any doubt in their mind, and to ring the council if they want any advice.”

Shops wanting advice on avoiding underage sales can call Trading Standards on 020 7527 3198.

Residents who suspect a shop may be selling restricted products such as knives, alcohol or cigarettes to young people can also call the number above.