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Good news that the Government has recognised the legitimate uses for laser pointers. However, I wonder if it will be of any practical benefit to astronomers. I believe the exemption/reasonable excuse will only apply to Class 1 and 2 laser pointers i.e. <1mw. It is my understanding that Class 3 and 4 laser pointers will be added to Schedule 1 of the Weapons Prohibition Act, therefore requiring a permit (and special security arrangements etc).
The government will quite reasonably refer to AS2211.1 for guidance on setting the bar. A quick reading of the classifications in this standard (and other background material on Classes of laser) will show there is little hope of the bar being raised in our favour. Perhaps an outside chance at <5mw (Class 3A), but I think we can forget anything like <10mw (Class 3B) or higher. The material considers these quite dangerous and requiring safety training.
I've only had a quick read of the above material and may be wrong. So please do correct me if anybody has heard/read different, or has a better understanding than I. I was just trying to work out if I can still use my <10mw laser pointer without a permit.
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