LNP cops heat from gun lobby

THE Liberal National Party is facing a rural backlash after backflipping on support for gun owners and alienating one of its biggest supporters.

The Shooters Union has slammed the LNP, saying the party had turned its back on them, despite courting their support before the election.

Shooters Union President Graham Park said the LNP had tried to secure votes from the shooting community by supporting the views of gun owners, however have since “flip flopped” on the issue of gun control.

Mr Park attacked Surfers Paradise MP John-Paul Langbroek who said a rise in registered gun ownership would mean a rise in gun violence.

“Long-term trends show a reduction in gun homicide, despite an ongoing increase in legal ownership,” Mr Park said.

“People with criminal records are already prevented from legally owning a gun. Criminals typically access weapons via the illicit firearms market and further firearm regulation would not prevent them accessing, or using, firearms.”

An LNP spokesman played down the rift between the party and the Shooters Union, saying it was trying to find the right balance for gun owners.

“We need to look after our farmers and make sure they have the right tools of trade,” he said.

“But we don’t support Ustyle gun laws and community safety must come first.”