SOUTH Swindon MP Julia Drown is demanding a parliamentary debate on the use of airguns and replica guns.

She says the danger they pose to people and animals is growing and a complete ban on their use may be the only answer.

Ms Drown has asked Robin Cook, the Leader of the House, to make time for a debate on the issue, and he has told her that if the Home Secretary agrees he will ensure that time is allowed.

She told Mr Cook: "Con-stituents, bus drivers and local police tell me of their serious concern about the increasing number of dangerous incidents involving airguns and replica guns.

"If we want to make communities safer, we must take further action to get these guns out of circulation."

Later the MP told the Even-ing Advertiser there was concern in Swindon over the growing use of these potentially dangerous weapons.

"They are so dangerous and someone could end being killed," she said. "We have got to get them out of circulation."

Ms Drown is backing fellow Labour MP Jonathan Shaw, who has put down an Early Day Motion calling for a change in the minimum age for airgun use.

He wants the legal age limit raised from 14 years to 17, and then only if supervised by an adult over 21.

Ms Drown said: "Restrict-ing them and raising the age limit all help, but banning these weapons completely ought to be seriously looked at."

Mr Shaw has used evidence collated by the Evening Advertiser to help his campaign.

"Dangerous and anti-social airgun use seriously threatens the health and safety of people, animals and property throughout the UK," said Mr Shaw, who is MP for Chatham and Aylesford.

He said: "Support for this issue is growing and everyday more MPs sign the EDM, and I receive letters and other support for changing airgun legislation daily."