SIR: I refer to the letter headed: Fight back (BEN May 20). Bill Brierley says there can't be any mistakes, if guns are banned. Well Mr Brierley, I have one question, HOW?

Bans only affect the lawful members of society. They cannot, do not and will not, ever stop the criminal from doing as he pleases.

Cocaine, heroin, cannabis etc are illegal. Alcohol was banned in America during prohibition. In none of these cases has it stopped people getting hold of them. Anyone who believes drug dealers, bank robbers and other such criminals will stop using firearms because a law is passed to ban them is deceiving himself. The only thing that deters criminals is a serious risk of being caught AND a substantial sentence once convicted.

Millions of people get harmless enjoyment from shooting, in its many forms. It has an enviable record of safety and is one of our most successful Olympic sports. Why ruin all that with a law that cannot work?

Mr T R Miles, Larch Street, Bury

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