Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 70
70
Rejected
Police and officials pointed out the inconsistencies between firearms and shotgun licensing requirements, as described...
Recommendation
Police and officials pointed out the inconsistencies between firearms and shotgun licensing requirements, as described in legislation. To resolve these inconsistencies, they were clear that shotgun licensing requirements ought to be brought into line with licensing requirements for firearms and air weapons. These inconsistencies include: • applicants for shotgun licences not being required to demonstrate that they are ‘fit to be entrusted’ with shotguns; • not having their licences revoked except on the grounds of public safety (rather than no longer having a good reason to own shotguns); • being required to provide one character reference rather than two. Having the same requirements for firearms, shotgun and air weapon licences would make the licensing process clearer for applicants seeking to obtain these licences, and for police forces administering the licensing process.
Government Response Summary
The government has decided not to proceed with the recommendations made to align shotgun and firearms legislation, arguing that shotguns are already subject to significant controls and additional controls are unnecessary.
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
The Committee recommended changes to legislation to align the requirements for shotguns and firearms. 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. It is for this reason that the Government has decided not to proceed with the recommendations made to align shotgun and firearms legislation. Shotguns are already subject to significant controls on their use and they are important in helping farmers control vermin on their land and in rural pursuits. We will keep this under review, but we are concerned that additional controls on shotguns are unnecessary and would have a negative impact on their legitimate use.