Countdown to new legislation

13 March: Thomas Hamilton kills 16 children and teacher in three minutes at Dunblane

15 March: John Major and Tony Blair visit Dunblane

21 March: Inquiry by Lord Cullen announced

28 April: 35 killed in Tasmania killing. Australian Government announces ban on 10 May.

1 August: Six Tory MPs on Home Affairs Select Committee vilified for refusing to recommend a ban.

3 October: Ann Pearston, Snowdrop campaigner, addresses Labour Party conference

9 October: John Major avoids commitment at Tory Party conference

15 October: Cabinet committee agrees to ban except for .22 weapons.