Pointing out the danger of lasers to lawmakers

AS frequent user of laser pointers, may I be allowed to clarify certain issues regarding these useful but dangerous instruments?

As many readers will know, I do a bit of public speaking on archaeological and photographic topics. Before lasers were available, the only usable pointers (other than the ubiquitous stick; only viable if one could reach the screen) were torches with focusing V-shaped filaments. Even with fresh batteries they were all but invisible against a screen image of adequate brightness.

When the first red laser pointers were imported, I obtained one at nearly £100. It was a Class II instrument, and though much better than the old torch, it struggled to cope. Soon afterwards, I noticed small key-ring laser pointers on a market stall for under £5. Though nominally Class II, these were very much brighter and even then probably dangerous to eyesight.

With the advent of digital projectors, Class II lasers began to be built into presenters; these are much brighter than the originals, and certainly dangerous to eyesight, though nominally still Class II.

Nowadays it is easily possible to purchase Class III green lasers on-line. I have one which I only use on larger screens. It has a range of over a mile and could be very dangerous in the wrong, or even inexperienced, hands.

No laser is a toy. Though one has to make a declaration when purchasing a Class III, there is no check on the age or occupation of the purchaser. Class II may be bought by anyone. Only lecturers and tour guides really need them. There is probably a case for legislation here, but knowing governments of all persuasions, it will probably take a loss of eyesight before anything is done.