Campaign renewed on airgun danger

The second phase of the campaign will look to build on previous success

A second phase of a campaign aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of airguns has been launched by the Scottish Government.

The campaign, which uses adverts, internet viral marketing, posters and leaflets, is resuming for the summer.

Police suggested this is when airgun incidents are most likely to occur.

Figures revealed the first phase of the campaign saw over 130,000 plays of the internet viral and almost 15,000 visits to the campaign web site.

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said: "Air guns are not toys, but weapons that can kill and maim. There have been tragedies that have caused pain and injury to children and animals. That's why we believe that action must be taken.

There have been almost 15,000 visits to the airgun campaign website

"We have been working closely with our police forces - and they've told us that that long summer days, light evenings and school holidays mean that incidents peak in the summer months."

The Calman Commission which has been looking at the future of devolution has recommended control of airguns be passed from Westminster to Holyrood.

Mr MacAskill added: "Meanwhile there will be no let up in our drive to reform the law on airguns. While I do welcome the recommendations from the Calman commission that the law on airguns should be devolved, I believe all firearms legislation should be included.

"We need a firearms system that is consistent, easier to understand and enforce: not the current incoherent muddled legislation.

"I've written to the new Home Secretary Alan Johnson, urging him to devolve firearms law in its entirety. This will enable us to put a system in place that meets Scotland's needs."