Should shopkeepers be allowed to defend themselves with pepper spray? It is an idea the Ministerial Advisory Group on Retail Crime has consulted on with industry players. But, the proposal faces stiff opposition due safety concerns around what is a restricted weapon. It comes amid questions about the advisory group's value for money. But the chairman, who has been paid over $230,000 in the group's first 12 months vigourously defends its worth. Jimmy Ellingham and Louisa Cleave report.