§ 25. Mr. Wainwrightasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if, in the course of his examination of the law relating to air-guns, he will consider making it compulsory for youths carrying air-guns, air-rifles, or air-pistols to apply to the police for a firearm certificate.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. David Renton)Yes, Sir. This suggestion will be considered.
§ Mr. WainwrightWhile thanking the Minister for that reply, may I ask whether he is aware that in 1958 over 700 accidents occurred due to the misuse of air weapons and that recently a youth of 19 made younger children jump up and down while he fired pellets at their feet? I hope that the Minister will bring into operation as quickly as possible some legislation which will stop these irresponsible youths from having the use of these air weapons.
§ Mr. RentonWe are aware of this problem and discussions are proceeding with representative chief officers of police as to the best way of handling it. The firearms certificate procedure under the Firearms Act, 1937, is not the only possible solution. We are considering the various alternatives.