Firearms (Amendment) Bill — Prohibition of small-calibre pistols — 18 Jun 1997

Considered in Committee [Progress, 16 June.]

Question proposed [16 June], That the clause stand part of the Bill.

Question again proposed.

I know some hon. Members believe that such an argument somehow denigrates people who own handguns. I am not attempting to do that. or to suggest that there will be massive growth in such illegal activity--but there will always be reaction to a prohibitive measure. All previous examples of prohibition show that subsequent reaction is likely. I am not associated with gun clubs, but I am--to use prohibition in America as an analogy--rather like a teetotaller who argues against prohibition because of its inherent dangers.

Question put: --

The Committee divided: Ayes 352, Noes 167.

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