First minister: Gun appeal

Scotland's first minister has called for a tightening of the laws on airguns, following the death of a Glasgow child.

Jack McConnell said the case of Andrew Morton, who died after being shot in the head with an airgun, should result in a rethink of the current laws.

His comments came after the SNP demanded action following Morton's death.

For the nationalists, Kenny MacAskill told MSPs: "If it's correct to legislate for knives and swords, it's certainly correct to legislate on weapons."

McConnell said he had held talks with the Home Office about introducing a system of licensing the firearms.

"We will have proper discussions with the Home Office and ensure that any legislation that comes forward is well thought through and enforceable," he said.

"I am aware of the opposition, particularly among police forces in England, to any tightening of the law in relation to licensing or a ban, and that position has some sympathy in Scotland among the forces.

"But while legislation might sometimes be difficult to implement, that would not make it wrong.

"If further legislation is required, and if it is in the best interest of Scotland, we will push for that legislation."