Proposed restrictions on replica guns would reduce violent crime.

2.26.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 18th Jun 2007

Baroness Sarah Ludford MEP has today welcomed the opinion by the Civil Liberties Committee on a report to be voted in the Internal Market Committee which looks to strengthen the traceability of illegal firearms, strengthen registration procedures (the time that details of weapons must be kept is proposed to be increased from 5 to 20 years). It also seeks to include converted and replica weapons within this scope.

Baroness Ludford emphasised the need for a firm stance on replica weapons:

"The term replica is misleading. It is surprisingly easy to convert these 'replica' guns into live weapons. There are now more converted 'replica' guns circulating around the UK than purpose-built weapons. The UK, as well as the EU, needs to take a firm line and take a firm line in tackling conversions of this kind."

"Given that the evidence shows an increase in the use of converted weapons within London and the EU, it is essential to ensure that such convertible weapons are brought within the definition of 'firearm' in this Directive. We need to stop criminals from exploiting this loophole. Communities across London need to know that they are safe to walk the streets."