The Government is backing its gang crackdown.

The proposed Firearm Prohibition Order laws would ban people from holding a firearms licence, over lower-level offences - and allow warrantless police searches of suspects.

The Justice Select Committee is asking the Government to scale back the plan, citing concerns it gives police too much power.

Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee is firm, but says she's taking suggestions on board.

"At the end of the day, we need to stop the drive-by shootings of innocent families that are being held to ransom by gangs - and their illegal use of weapons."

LISTEN ABOVE