NRA savages Obama's plans to combat gun violence

WASHINGTON (AFP) - The main gun lobby in the United States savaged President Barack Obama's plans to combat gun violence on Wednesday, saying "attacking firearms and ignoring children is not a solution."

"Only honest, law-abiding gun owners will be affected and our children will remain vulnerable to the inevitability of more tragedy," the NRA said in a statement after Mr Obama announced a series of sweeping gun control measures.

Mr Obama demanded a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines and universal background checks for gun buyers, setting up a major clash with the powerful firearms lobby in the wake of last month's Newtown school massacre, which claimed the lives of 20 small children and six adults.

The National Rifle Association (NRA), a steadfast opponent of tighter regulations for gun owners, dismissed such moves but said it would continue to lead efforts to promote safety and responsible gun ownership.