John Major first said he would not be rushed to a decision but would wait for the outcome of the Cullen Enquiry. In the build up to the General Election this became a weakness that was exploited mercilessly by Labour.

Major then went back on his original word and said they would ban centre fire pistols before the Cullen Enquiry had reported. This was entirely due to the relentless criticism from Labour.

When the announcement was made Tony Blair said "Thats no good, if Labour are elected we will ban all pistols"

Thats what I mean about a throw away line from Tony Blair. Although the Tories announced they would ban centre fire pistols they never actually did because they didn't have time. The pistol ban, including .22s was part of the new Labour Govt's package after they won the Election.