Backing for air-gun laws

OPPOSITION politicians gave a cautious welcome yesterday to the UK government's plans to restrict the sale of air-guns in Britain.

The Scotsman revealed yesterday that the Home Office had agreed to introduce a licensing scheme for air weapons following intense lobbying from the Scottish Executive.

David Davis, the shadow home secretary, said the Tories would examine the proposals in detail but gave his cautious backing to the scheme.

He said: "We have already accepted the UK government's proposals but understand the sensitivities and will give this further consideration in due course."

Kenny MacAskill, for the SNP, said a licensing scheme was the first step forward, but called for greater action to curb the possession as well as the sale of air weapons.