THE second serious shooting incident this week in the west of Scotland has prompted calls for the overhaul of firearms legislation.
Jackie Baillie, the MSP for Dumbarton, said after the Balloch incident: "We need to make sure that all action that can be taken is taken to reduce the availability of weapons, be they firearms or knives, so that people can feel safe in their communities."
Kenny MacAskill, shadow justice minister, said the Scottish Parliament needed powers over firearms and the executive needed to act.
He added: "We need a new, all-encompassing firearms act.
"The legislation is diverse and difficult even for experts to follow.
"The principle act was in 1968 with numerous amendments and changes since. The law must be brought up to date and consolidated. Equally, the punishment must also be clearly set out and also must be severe."
The SNP MSP added: "This not the Wild West. It is the west of Scotland - it is entirely unacceptable.
"This recent spate of firearms offences needs stamped on hard and stamped out now."
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