NEW laws to tackle knife crime could alienate young people, the Childrens Commissioner for England has warned.

Police are using new powers to allow them to search people for knives and guns without reasonable suspicion they may actually be carrying a weapon.

The police said the move, which follows a spate of knife killings in London, is intended to keep young people safe not victimise them.

But Sir Al Aynsley-Green said more stopping and searching of young people could create hostility and called for more research into the effects of the increased powers.

He said: "There is a balance here. On the one hand for young people to feel safer by having the presence of the police - but on the other hand making sure the new powers dont create further antagonism by increased stopping and searching.

"These are very contentious and I certainly support the case for much more research on the effects of these policies on them."