The Home Office published on 29 June a consultation which will run for 8 weeks and covers a number of recommendations it has received on suggested changes to firearms licensing. The consultation seeks views on recommendations made to the UK Government by:
The Senior Coroner for Plymouth, Torbay and South Devon following the inquest into the deaths of those shot and killed by a licensed shotgun owner in Keyham on 12 August 2021
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) following its investigation into Devon and Cornwall Police’s decision-making in relation to the possession of a shotgun and shotgun certificate by the shooter in Keyham
The Scottish Affairs Select Committee following its review of firearms licensing regulations in Scotland, which followed a fatal shooting on the Isle of Skye on 10 August 2022
How To Respond
A link to the consultation document is provided below and target shooters are encouraged to respond directly. It is possible to submit your views online or by email - details for responding can be found on the page in the link below. The consultation will close on Wednesday 23 August.
Additional Information
For additional context about the consultation, the text on the webpage also states the following:
“The government has made no decisions on these questions and recommendations and we will carefully consider all the views received in relation to this consultation.
Public safety is our priority, but the measures to manage the risk to public safety must be proportionate and balanced with the fact that the vast majority of licensed firearms holders are law abiding and cause no concern.
Following this consultation, and in light of the responses received, if the government concludes that legislative changes are necessary we will consult formally on specific legislative proposals accompanied by assessments of the impact of those changes on all those potentially affected."
We Want Your Views!
STS are working with colleagues on the Scottish Firearms Licensing Practitioners Group to discuss the potential impact of this. As well as responding directly, we would be grateful if members could reply to this, highlighting any concerns in order that we are aware of matters ahead of any such discussions.
Members Responses
It is important that members respond to this consultation. We will be answering the consultation too as STS however, we would encourage members to address the consultation individually too. If you need any advice in respect of this, please don’t hesitate to contact the office.
Don’t forget, the consultation closes on Wednesday 23 August.