HC Deb 24 April 1986 vol 96 cc186-7W
34. Mr. Robert Atkins

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is yet in a position to announce his conclusions on the adequacy of the regulations governing the sale and control of crossbows; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Evennett

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is yet in a position to say whether he has any plans to introduce legislation to control the sale of crossbows; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Giles Shaw

I am currently considering whether any steps could usefully be taken to try to prevent crossbows falling into the wrong hands. Discussions with interested parties including crossbow sporting organisations, the manufacturers and the police are taking place. My right hon. Friend will report our conclusions to the House as soon as possible.

40. Mr. Colin Shepherd

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent representations he has received concerning the danger arising from the unrestricted sale and possession of crossbows.

Mr. Giles Shaw

Since the beginning of this year, we have received 76 letters from right hon. and hon. Members and 45 from organisations and members of the public. Among these were representations from the Association of County Councils, the Association of District Councils, Suffolk county council, the Northumbria police authority, the National Farmers' Union, the British Veterinary Association and the National Housewives Association.