The recent incident involving a cigarette lighter in the shape of a gun is regrettable but calls for a ban on so-called imitation guns by ill-informed judges are even more regrettable.

Studies of the effect of crime with imitation firearms have been tracked by my company, Battle Orders Ltd, since 1972.

The identification of an imitation weapon is impossible and, as the recent ban on all handguns has proved, knee-jerk laws do not work.

Legal handguns have been banned but armed crime has increased, resulting in a waste of public funds.

Debating an issue already proven to be satisfied is merely a further waste of time and money.

Treating perpetrators of crime who use imitation weapons as if real is and can continue to be the answer.

-Graham M Barton, Managing Director, Battle Orders Ltd, Eastbourne Road, Lower Willingdon, Eastbourne