51.   Gun makers prey on paranoia over street crime, which has declined.

52.   He asserted that the gun makers, who have broken off talks in recent months, would return to the table if they knew Bush opposed such legislation.

53.   Gun makers could then see where problems might exist, he said.

54.   Gun makers have denied the charges.

55.   He compared the responsibility of a gun maker for a shooting to that of a car manufacturer in a reckless driving case.

56.   He has signed bills allowing people to carry concealed weapons and preventing municipalities from suing gun makers.

57.   However, he does not believe gun makers should be required to include the safety feature on all firearms.

58.   If either of the gun companies agrees to the demands, it would be the first time a gun maker has made a concession to gun control proposals.

59.   In fact, the main sponsor of the ban on cities suing gun makers was Delegate C. Richard Cranwell of Roanoke, the House Democratic leader.

60.   In New York, a closely watched legal case in which most gun makers are being sued over how guns are sold, is moving toward trial.