Liberal Democrat Shadow Justice Secretary Margaret Smith MSP has called for a review of existing firearms legislation and a registration system for new owners of airguns.

Mrs Smith made the call after attending the Firearms Summit, where it was agreed that the current firearms legislation was outdated and confused.

Commenting, Mrs Smith said:

“This was a productive meeting and there was agreement that the present legislation governing firearms was confused, outdated and needs to be reviewed.

“There are around 23 pieces of legislation that make up the rules governing firearms. It’s a piecemeal approach, as new laws are often created in the wake of tragic incidents where firearms are involved.

“Police, prosecutors and other authorities made it clear that at times they don’t understand the complex web of legislation. If the professionals are struggling to grasp the rules, it’s understandable that ordinary owners are confused.

“Our party will be happy to make representations to the Home Office calling for a review of the current firearms laws. Liberal Democrats also want to see more control over who owns airguns, through the introduction of a registration scheme for new airgun owners, based on whether the individual is a fit and proper person to own an airgun.

“An airgun in the wrong hands is a lethal weapon in exactly the same way that a firearm or shotgun can be, both of which are already subject to registration process.”