'Anti-teen' mosquito device ban ruled out by Scottish government

The devices send out a noise only audible to those under 25

The Scottish government will not outlaw the so-called mosquito crime gadget which emits a high pitched noise only audible to those under 25.

The Scottish Youth Parliament had petitioned Holyrood calling for a ban.

Community Safety Minister Roseanna Cunningham has now told the parliament's petitions committee there was no evidence to justify a legal ban.

The devices are often used outside shops to stop young people from engaging in anti-social behaviour.

The youth parliament claimed use of the gadgets - which are effective on the more sensitive years of young people - meant youngsters were being discriminated against.

However, Scottish ministers claim the mosquito is not in widespread use in Scotland and they know of no complaints from members of the public regarding the practice.

Ms Cunningham praised the petitioners for bringing forward their concerns and reiterated the Scottish government's opposition to the use of the devices.

She told MSPs that legislation was not a "quick and easy option" and should only be used as a "last resort".

Ms Cunningham added: "Given the lack of evidence as to any perceived problem, I don't think I could justify further work on this issue which diverts us from the priority work currently being undertaken to tackle anti-social behaviour."

She also announced that the manufacturers of the mosquito gadget, Compound Security Systems, had agreed to put a warning sign on all devices shipped to Scotland in the future.

In his original letter to the public petitions committee, Scottish Youth Parliament member, Andrew Deans, said: "The mosquito debate is hugely symbolic. It is about the Scottish government taking a stand against the outdated belief that young people can be mistreated and discriminated against."

Fight on

Commenting on the statement from the Scottish government on the issue, Mr Deans said he was "very disappointed" at the decision and stressed that it was not so much about evidence, but more about the principle of equality.

He added: "The amount of evidence should not matter, the use of these devices is offensive and discriminates against young people because of their age."

Mr Deans has vowed to fight on and hopes Holyrood will give him the opportunity to challenge the SNP government's position.

Holyrood's petition's committee will now decide on any further action required.