Plea to county gun owners over licensing laws rethink

FEEDBACK SOUGHT AS HOME OFFICE CONSIDERS GREATER INVOLVEMENT FROM POLICE

GUN owners across the county are being asked to have their say over potential changes to firearms licensing.

Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews is urging previous firearms or shotgun certificate holders and residents to share their views.

The Home Office is currently reviewing arrangements for the licensing of guns, focusing on issues like the amount of scrutiny required of medical records for those applying for a license.

It is also considering reviewing social media posts and having police examine them before granting or renewing a firearms license.

Mr Matthews said: “Recent tragic events have brought home the issue of gun licensing and raised questions nationally about the level of scrutiny applicants should receive prior to obtaining their licences.”

A survey has been launched, run by the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, which also asks whether or not an applicant should be expected to pay the full costs of having their request processed.

Mr Matthews added: “To help the Home Office make fair and proportionate changes to the system, we want to hear your views, especially those of you who hold or have previously held a licence.

“The vast majority of licence holders in England and Wales use their firearms legitimately and responsibly for work and leisure pursuits while most of the guns used in crime are unlicensed and illegally held.

“While tightening the system will not stop these incidents, it is imperative we maximise the safety and protection of the public by reducing any risks.”

The deadline for feedback is Wednesday, October 20. To take part, see: