To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if he will introduce legislation to create an offence of shining laser pointers at aircraft and other modes of transport.

It is currently an offence to shine a laser at an aircraft, which carries a maximum penalty of a fine of £2,500. If intent to endanger an aircraft can be proved, a suspect can be tried under the Aviation and Safety Act 1982 for offences against the safety of aircraft, including damaging or endangering the safety of aircraft, which carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment.

The Department continues to work closely with other government departments, the Civil Aviation Authority, as the independent regulator, the industry and other interested parties, like pilots, to consider how best to mitigate risks, and control the sale, use and possession of laser pens.