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Controls on Firearms

The possession of firearms, their parts and ammunition in England, Scotland and Wales is regulated by the Firearms Acts 1968-97. Northern Ireland has its own firearms laws. The UK already have some of the toughest gun controls in the world. But the legislation has been amended a number of times, and as a result the framework of controls can be difficult to understand and enforce. This consultation paper seeks views on how these controls should be updated. The consultation closed on 31 August 2004

Title: Controls On Firearms - A Consultation Paper
Author: Home Office
Number of pages: 33
Date published: May 2004

Summary

Firearms law is complex and the paper separates the issues into manageable sections.

Part 1: "Firearms"

Describes the three categories on which gun licensing is currently based. It asks whether types of gun are subject to the right levels of control and if licensing should continue to be based on these categories. The section also asks whether the certification process can be improved, if any changes are needed to the regulation of component parts and whether responsibilities for administering controls on firearms should continue as at present;

Part 2: "Unlicensed Guns"

Discusses those types of guns, principally imitations, low-powered air guns and deactivated firearms, which are not subject to licensing. We do not believe that licensing of low-powered air guns and imitations, or restrictions on their sale, is proportionate or enforceable. Part 2 invites consultees to say whether they agree with this. It also invites views on whether further controls on deactivated firearms are needed;

Part 3: "Young People and Guns"

Refers to growing concern about the attractiveness of guns to some young people. It asks how the complex age limit provisions might be simplified and invites comments on the principle of young people and legal shooting;

Part 4: "Trade"

Discusses the means by which guns, their parts and ammunition are bought and sold. It asks whether the regulation of Registered Firearms Dealers can be improved, and whether action is needed in connection with internet, newspaper and telephone sales and mail order deliveries;

Part 5: "Ammunition"

Seeks views on whether shot gun cartridges and component parts of ammunition should be licensed and whether the existing controls on expanding ammunition should be maintained;

Part 6: "Other Issues"

Asks for views on topics not covered elsewhere in the paper. For example, if exemptions from the need to have a firearms certificate should continue in their present form and whether changes are needed to the existing procedures for appeals against licensing decisions.

Contribute to the discussion

The Controls on Firearms consultation closed on 31 August 2004.

Download Controls On Firearms - A Consultation Paper from the Home Office Website PDF 1.2Mb

Last update: 24 January 2006