Lib Dems to tackle replica gun sales in York (York Liberal Democrats)

York Liberal Democrats <info@yorklibdems.org.uk>

Lib Dems to tackle replica gun sales in York

January 11, 2008 1:05 PM

Councillors will be asked to approve enforcement action against the sale of replica guns at a meeting next week. The Neighbourhood Services EMAP on 21st January will consider an officer report on the ban by which the council will utilise all additional powers at its disposal to tackle the threat to public safety.

In October last year it became an offence to sell replica firearms to anyone, regardless of their age, and Councillors are now being asked by Council Officers to implement this legislation.

Liberal Democrat Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services, Cllr Andrew Waller, said,

Air Guns "Many replica firearms look so realistic and they are hard to distinguish from the real thing. It is important that the Council enforces new measures to comply with this legislation, so shop owners and their customers know what can and cannot be sold."

Many BB Guns (or 'air soft' guns) are replica guns which will now be illegal to buy. It is illegal to buy and sell all replica guns apart from those which are regarded as 'unrealistic'. 'Unrealistic' replica guns are those which are less than 38mm x 70mm in diameter, or transparent or brightly coloured. However, even these imitation firearms can only be sold to people over the age of 18.

Cllr Waller said, "Over recent years the council has started checks on the sales of knives, on top of alcohol, aerosol, and cigarettes to underaged youths. I welcome the Council preparing to take enforcement action on the sale of replica guns and working with the Home Office and Police Authority to achieve this.

"I hope these changes will help reduce the actual and perceived impact of violent and nuisance behaviour in York. However, I would feel more comfortable if the government took more steps to stop the flow of guns into Britain with an integrated border force with police powers."

Residents who believe that sales of replica guns are taking place should contact the council's Trading Standards department on 551562.