The "proposed" fees for Firearm & Shotgun certificates
Published 15/1/25
FAC Grant £198
FAC renewal £131
SGC Grant £194
SGC renewal £126
Coterminous Grant £202
Coterminous Renewal £155
FAC variation (not 1-1) £47
RFD Grant £466
RFD renewal £466
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/changes-to-firearms-licensing-fees/firearms-licensing-fees-impact-assessment-accessible
Published 15/1/25
FAC Grant £198
FAC renewal £131
SGC Grant £194
SGC renewal £126
Coterminous Grant £202
Coterminous Renewal £155
FAC variation (not 1-1) £47
RFD Grant £466
RFD renewal £466
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/changes-to-firearms-licensing-fees/firearms-licensing-fees-impact-assessment-accessible
Lead in ammunition (21/12/24)
The Health & Safety Executive has published a 124-page document – entitled “HSE – Agency Opinion on the Annex 15 Dossier on the Proposal for a Restriction – Lead in Ammunition.”
In which “The Agency has identified several different uses of lead ammunition for the purposes of this restriction proposal, based on technical function and operational conditions.”
The proposed restrictions appear for “outdoor target shooting” to be:-
Shotgun ammunition – “Restriction on the placing on the market and use, with a derogation for competitive athletes.” Iin English, prevent the sale, restrict the use to certain ranges, and allow Olympic competitors to use lead shot. Section 1 ammunition – “Restriction on the use with a derogation for use at certain sites.” Again only allowing it’s use on certain ranges. Airgun ammunition – no restrictions.
I know this raises FAR more questions than it answers, so I will be going though this over the next few days to try to give you a better summary, and perhaps answer one or two questions. I’m sorry if I’m unable to answer ALL questions, as the document (just look at the title) is extremely complex: EG: “Regarding CKD risk for adults, RAC noted that this was low given the conservative nature of EFSA’s BMDL.”
Changes to the Home Office's criteria for target shooting clubs approval - sorry about the length of the URL !
www.gov.uk/government/publications/approval-of-rifle-and-muzzle-loading-pistol-clubs/approval-of-rifle-and-muzzle-loading-pistol-clubs-accessible#annex-a-the-role-and-responsibilities-of-club-liaison-officers
They relate to the duties of the club's Police Liaison Officer, but it seems that many police forces didn't even know about these changes.
www.gov.uk/government/publications/approval-of-rifle-and-muzzle-loading-pistol-clubs/approval-of-rifle-and-muzzle-loading-pistol-clubs-accessible#annex-a-the-role-and-responsibilities-of-club-liaison-officers
They relate to the duties of the club's Police Liaison Officer, but it seems that many police forces didn't even know about these changes.
[06/04/24] From what we have recently been told, it would appear that lead ammunition can be used on indoor ranges, and that airgun pellets will not be subjected to a ban.
A change to firearms law/guidance
We have just (30/01/23) received this new set of guidance from the Home Office for anyone who runs target shooting under the auspices of Section 11(4) of the Firearms Act. It is likely that the majority of PSRA schools will NOT have been using this section, and will have a club or school firearm certificate, in which case it will not affect you.
New condition in the Home Office Guide
Target shooting – Miniature rifle range/galleries
The *.22 rim-fire calibre firearms and ammunition shall be used for target shooting in accordance with the exemption in section 11(4) of the Firearms Act 1968.
New good reason paragraphs in the HO Guide
Miniature rifle ranges
The Firearms Act 2023 introduced a requirement, when commenced, for the operator of a miniature rifle range or a shooting gallery, at which .22 rim-fire calibre firearms are used, to be in possession of a firearm certificate. This means that in order to purchase or possess firearms, the operator of such a range must have been granted a firearm certificate, and will have undergone the rigorous police checks on suitability and secure storage, ensuring that the operation of such ranges is within a secure and safe environment. Depending on the recreational shooting facility, the operator of the miniature rifle range or gallery may be the owner or they may be the individual who is responsible for the day to day management and operation of the facility. Being the operator of a miniature rifle range or gallery which uses .22 rim-fire calibre firearms can therefore constitute a good reason for a person to be granted a firearm certificate.
Provided that the operator of a miniature rifle range or gallery has been granted a firearm certificate, participants can engage in target shooting at such a range without being required to obtain a firearm certificate. This enables newcomers to try out target shooting in a safe and controlled environment. The miniature rifle range exemption is extensively used, including by clubs, schools and colleges, at game fairs and by activity centres offering target shooting. In England and Wales there is no requirement for the operator of a shooting gallery or range which only uses lower-powered air weapons which are not classed as ‘specially dangerous’, to obtain a firearm certificate. In Scotland Section 23 of the Air Weapons and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2015 applies which means that those operating a recreational shooting facility must hold an air weapon certificate. In accordance with section 54(5) of the Firearms Act 1968, in relation to target shooting carried out by a recognised cadet corps, the operator of a miniature rifle range who is a recognised cadet corps leader would not be required to possess a certificate when training cadets.
The police must be satisfied that an applicant who is applying for a certificate as the operator of a miniature rifle range or gallery has good reason for possession of the firearms. Police enquiries to establish good reason will include a visit to the miniature rifle range or gallery and inspection of the arrangements for safe storage of the firearms. The police will also need to be satisfied that the arrangements provide a safe and secure environment, with proper supervision of participants, and that the operation of the miniature rifle range or gallery will not pose a danger to public safety or the peace.
Section 11(4) of the Firearms Act 1968 specifies that only .22 rim-fire calibre rifles may be used at a miniature rifle range or gallery. These are lower-powered rifles, and as such are regarded as appropriate for use by those who are new to target shooting and are not firearm certificate holders.
Criteria for miniature rifle ranges for inclusion in HO Guide
The operator must provide the police with such information as they require in order to be satisfied that shooting on the range or gallery will be conducted properly and safely and give no cause for concern.
We have just (30/01/23) received this new set of guidance from the Home Office for anyone who runs target shooting under the auspices of Section 11(4) of the Firearms Act. It is likely that the majority of PSRA schools will NOT have been using this section, and will have a club or school firearm certificate, in which case it will not affect you.
New condition in the Home Office Guide
Target shooting – Miniature rifle range/galleries
The *.22 rim-fire calibre firearms and ammunition shall be used for target shooting in accordance with the exemption in section 11(4) of the Firearms Act 1968.
New good reason paragraphs in the HO Guide
Miniature rifle ranges
The Firearms Act 2023 introduced a requirement, when commenced, for the operator of a miniature rifle range or a shooting gallery, at which .22 rim-fire calibre firearms are used, to be in possession of a firearm certificate. This means that in order to purchase or possess firearms, the operator of such a range must have been granted a firearm certificate, and will have undergone the rigorous police checks on suitability and secure storage, ensuring that the operation of such ranges is within a secure and safe environment. Depending on the recreational shooting facility, the operator of the miniature rifle range or gallery may be the owner or they may be the individual who is responsible for the day to day management and operation of the facility. Being the operator of a miniature rifle range or gallery which uses .22 rim-fire calibre firearms can therefore constitute a good reason for a person to be granted a firearm certificate.
Provided that the operator of a miniature rifle range or gallery has been granted a firearm certificate, participants can engage in target shooting at such a range without being required to obtain a firearm certificate. This enables newcomers to try out target shooting in a safe and controlled environment. The miniature rifle range exemption is extensively used, including by clubs, schools and colleges, at game fairs and by activity centres offering target shooting. In England and Wales there is no requirement for the operator of a shooting gallery or range which only uses lower-powered air weapons which are not classed as ‘specially dangerous’, to obtain a firearm certificate. In Scotland Section 23 of the Air Weapons and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2015 applies which means that those operating a recreational shooting facility must hold an air weapon certificate. In accordance with section 54(5) of the Firearms Act 1968, in relation to target shooting carried out by a recognised cadet corps, the operator of a miniature rifle range who is a recognised cadet corps leader would not be required to possess a certificate when training cadets.
The police must be satisfied that an applicant who is applying for a certificate as the operator of a miniature rifle range or gallery has good reason for possession of the firearms. Police enquiries to establish good reason will include a visit to the miniature rifle range or gallery and inspection of the arrangements for safe storage of the firearms. The police will also need to be satisfied that the arrangements provide a safe and secure environment, with proper supervision of participants, and that the operation of the miniature rifle range or gallery will not pose a danger to public safety or the peace.
Section 11(4) of the Firearms Act 1968 specifies that only .22 rim-fire calibre rifles may be used at a miniature rifle range or gallery. These are lower-powered rifles, and as such are regarded as appropriate for use by those who are new to target shooting and are not firearm certificate holders.
Criteria for miniature rifle ranges for inclusion in HO Guide
The operator must provide the police with such information as they require in order to be satisfied that shooting on the range or gallery will be conducted properly and safely and give no cause for concern.
- The operator must not permit a person to shoot at the miniature rifle range or gallery if they have concerns about risk to safety because of their behaviour or demeanour.
- The security arrangements for the storage of firearms and ammunition must be satisfactory to the local police firearms licensing department.
- Those shooting on the miniature rifle range or gallery must be supervised at all times when handling firearms and ammunition by a person who is a firearm certificate holder or who is otherwise suitably qualified, for example, as a Range Conducting Officer. The firearm certificate holder must be on site at all times when the firearms are in use on the miniature rifle range.
- Only .22 rim-fire calibre rifles or air weapons may be used on the miniature rifle range.
1/9/23 -Consultation NOW ENDED - We await a response.
The Government has just started a consultation on changes to firearms law as a response to many suggestions following the Plymouth and Isle of Skye shootings.
Below are the main questions from this consultation, together with suggested responses and the reasons for those suggestions.
Please take the time to complete the consultation, in your own name and/or in the name of your school as an organisation/club.
Question 1. Do you consider that the police should be granted a specific power of entry (without a warrant issued by a magistrate or sheriff) to be able to seize shotguns, firearms and ammunition where there is a risk to public safety or the peace and the certificate holder does not cooperate with the police and agree to voluntary surrender?
NO the police already have the power to revoke a certificate if there is a danger to the public, and they use it regularly.
(b) Mandatory prohibitions
Question 2. Do you consider that the prohibition on possessing firearms should be changed from one that is based solely on length of a custodial sentence following conviction, to one based more on the nature of the offence?
NO Defining the nature of the offence would be complex in the extreme, and subject to changes due to public perception/ media pressure. To receive a prison sentence the matter has to be individually considered carefully before a court.
(c) Length of certificate before renewal require.
Question 3. [1] Do you consider that the renewal period (currently every five years) for a certificate should be kept under review? [2] If so, is renewal every five years the right period of time or [3] should it be changed to a shorter or longer period of time?
Three questions in one. Probably best to skip this one if possible, and go to the next question, or answer NO
Length of certificate before renewal
Recommendations relating to referees
Question 4. Do you consider that people applying for shotgun certificates should provide two referees?
NO The system as it stands is working as well as any reference system can, and was reviewed fairly recently.
Question 5. Do you consider that at least one of the referees should be a person of certain standing in the community (e.g. of a professional background)? This could include public officials (both elected and Civil Servants or Local Government officers), members of a regulated profession (including doctors, nurses, solicitors, barristers, accountants and FCA regulated finance professionals), officers of registered shooting clubs, National Farmers’ Union representatives, landlords, land managers, vets or surveyors.
NO The current system requires someone who knows the applicant well. The system of using “people of standing” was abandoned fairly recently, as it added nothing to the process, and the new system of using people who really know the applicant has worked well.
Question 6. Do you consider that referees should be able to demonstrate a good knowledge of the applicant’s circumstances, relevant to their suitability to possess a firearm or shotgun?
NO This is effectively the case now, but “relevant to their suitability” is something ill-defined, and is far too open to interpretation.
Question 7. Do you consider that the application form should include a checklist for referees on the information that they should provide to the police, and require referees to provide a written declaration that they have disclosed all relevant facts to the police?
NO checklists add to the bureaucracy, and cannot hope to cover every eventuality without becoming extremely unwieldy. Good guidance to the referee would be far more helpful.
Question 8. Do you consider that the Statutory Guidance should include more detailed guidance for the police on the information they should be looking to elicit from referees?
NO Lists limit the investigation to items on that list. Referees can only offer a snapshot at the time of the application.
Question 9. Do you consider that the police should look at the circumstances when individuals change referees between application and renewal, and between subsequent renewals?
YES This is already good practice, and is done by many police forces.
Question 10. Do you consider that the sharing of the unique application reference number by the applicant with their referees would make it easier for referees to report concerns they have about applicants to the police, or to decline to give references, or, for those who give references but subsequently become concerned that the applicant may no longer be suitable to have access to a firearm or shotgun, to report this later to the police.
NO A reference number can be forgotten or lost, but it’s unlikely that the name of the applicant will be.
2. Other recommendations
Question 11. Do you consider that the content in the Statutory Guidance should be expanded and made more prescriptive in relation to the suitability checks carried out by the police for firearm and shotgun applicants and certificate holders?
NO This is already robust and again, limiting an investigation to a tick-box approach does not help where well trained and intelligent firearms licensing officers will.
Question 12. Do you consider that the balance of probabilities test is the correct test to apply in the Statutory Guidance to information about a person’s suitability to hold a certificate? This is the test that the police have been using for many years and is applied in weighing the evidence and information in any individual case.
YES IF it is used correctly.
Question 13. Do you consider that neurodevelopmental disorders should be added to the list of relevant medical conditions in the Statutory Guidance (and application form)?
NO “Neurodevelopmental disorders” is too broad a definition, and may be of no relevance. ( EG: ADHD as a child) This is already covered in the current form under “Any other mental or physical condition, or combination of conditions, which you think may be relevant.”
Question 14. Do you consider that GPs’ engagement with the firearms licensing process should be made mandatory?
YES vital. This was agreed as a part of the continuous monitoring system to allow a ten year renewal cycle, and the lack of it has been the weakest link in the system.
Question 15. Do you consider that interim medical checks should be made on licensed firearms holders between the grant of the certificate and any application to renew?
NO The continuous monitoring system covers this, and to add extra checks would put pressure on an already overloaded medical system. There seems little evidence that this would provide any benefits.
Question 16. Do you consider that the digital marker for use by GPs on the medical records of licensed firearms holders should be visible to other health professionals?
YES It shouldn’t currently be the case, but we know that in fact this marker is being shared with other medical agencies despite the data protection regulations.
Question 17. Do you consider there should be more mental health advice and support for licensed firearms holders through, for example, advice leaflets and other such support?
YES but handled with delicacy – the revocation of a certificate has a surprisingly great impact on a sporting shooter’s self-esteem, and can result in the loss of peer support, if only in the shooter’s own view. It can remove the shooter from his or her sporting friends and colleagues, and thus from their support. Revocation is often seen as a stigma.
Question 18. Do you consider a specific phoneline should be introduced in addition to the services already available to report concerns about a licensed firearms holder?
NO If firearms licensing departments were to make their telephone details available – at least during office hours – that would help greatly, at the same saving the expense of setting up a separate system.
Question 19. How in principle should any specific phoneline be funded?
NO There are a number of people and organisations who do not have the best interests of the shooting sports in mind. Firearms Licensing contacts, ( see Q 18) yes, but the other systems are largely there to deal with criminal acts, and associating the largely law-abiding certificate holders with criminals in the public mind would be counter-productive, as it would create a barrier between them and the police.
Question 21. If you have any comments on the subject matter of this consultation, please enter below.
The Government has just started a consultation on changes to firearms law as a response to many suggestions following the Plymouth and Isle of Skye shootings.
Below are the main questions from this consultation, together with suggested responses and the reasons for those suggestions.
Please take the time to complete the consultation, in your own name and/or in the name of your school as an organisation/club.
Question 1. Do you consider that the police should be granted a specific power of entry (without a warrant issued by a magistrate or sheriff) to be able to seize shotguns, firearms and ammunition where there is a risk to public safety or the peace and the certificate holder does not cooperate with the police and agree to voluntary surrender?
NO the police already have the power to revoke a certificate if there is a danger to the public, and they use it regularly.
(b) Mandatory prohibitions
Question 2. Do you consider that the prohibition on possessing firearms should be changed from one that is based solely on length of a custodial sentence following conviction, to one based more on the nature of the offence?
NO Defining the nature of the offence would be complex in the extreme, and subject to changes due to public perception/ media pressure. To receive a prison sentence the matter has to be individually considered carefully before a court.
(c) Length of certificate before renewal require.
Question 3. [1] Do you consider that the renewal period (currently every five years) for a certificate should be kept under review? [2] If so, is renewal every five years the right period of time or [3] should it be changed to a shorter or longer period of time?
Three questions in one. Probably best to skip this one if possible, and go to the next question, or answer NO
Length of certificate before renewal
- 5 years (the current period)
- Less than 5 years
- More than 5 years More than 5 years. Now we have 24/7/364 monitoring via the National Firearms Licensing System, the Police National Computer systems and the medical marker, none of which were available when certificate life was last considered. It was agreed with the police that a certificate should last for 10 years once this continuous monitoring was in place. Thjs saves police time, and does not render any risk to the public.
Recommendations relating to referees
Question 4. Do you consider that people applying for shotgun certificates should provide two referees?
NO The system as it stands is working as well as any reference system can, and was reviewed fairly recently.
Question 5. Do you consider that at least one of the referees should be a person of certain standing in the community (e.g. of a professional background)? This could include public officials (both elected and Civil Servants or Local Government officers), members of a regulated profession (including doctors, nurses, solicitors, barristers, accountants and FCA regulated finance professionals), officers of registered shooting clubs, National Farmers’ Union representatives, landlords, land managers, vets or surveyors.
NO The current system requires someone who knows the applicant well. The system of using “people of standing” was abandoned fairly recently, as it added nothing to the process, and the new system of using people who really know the applicant has worked well.
Question 6. Do you consider that referees should be able to demonstrate a good knowledge of the applicant’s circumstances, relevant to their suitability to possess a firearm or shotgun?
NO This is effectively the case now, but “relevant to their suitability” is something ill-defined, and is far too open to interpretation.
Question 7. Do you consider that the application form should include a checklist for referees on the information that they should provide to the police, and require referees to provide a written declaration that they have disclosed all relevant facts to the police?
NO checklists add to the bureaucracy, and cannot hope to cover every eventuality without becoming extremely unwieldy. Good guidance to the referee would be far more helpful.
Question 8. Do you consider that the Statutory Guidance should include more detailed guidance for the police on the information they should be looking to elicit from referees?
NO Lists limit the investigation to items on that list. Referees can only offer a snapshot at the time of the application.
Question 9. Do you consider that the police should look at the circumstances when individuals change referees between application and renewal, and between subsequent renewals?
YES This is already good practice, and is done by many police forces.
Question 10. Do you consider that the sharing of the unique application reference number by the applicant with their referees would make it easier for referees to report concerns they have about applicants to the police, or to decline to give references, or, for those who give references but subsequently become concerned that the applicant may no longer be suitable to have access to a firearm or shotgun, to report this later to the police.
NO A reference number can be forgotten or lost, but it’s unlikely that the name of the applicant will be.
2. Other recommendations
Question 11. Do you consider that the content in the Statutory Guidance should be expanded and made more prescriptive in relation to the suitability checks carried out by the police for firearm and shotgun applicants and certificate holders?
NO This is already robust and again, limiting an investigation to a tick-box approach does not help where well trained and intelligent firearms licensing officers will.
Question 12. Do you consider that the balance of probabilities test is the correct test to apply in the Statutory Guidance to information about a person’s suitability to hold a certificate? This is the test that the police have been using for many years and is applied in weighing the evidence and information in any individual case.
YES IF it is used correctly.
Question 13. Do you consider that neurodevelopmental disorders should be added to the list of relevant medical conditions in the Statutory Guidance (and application form)?
NO “Neurodevelopmental disorders” is too broad a definition, and may be of no relevance. ( EG: ADHD as a child) This is already covered in the current form under “Any other mental or physical condition, or combination of conditions, which you think may be relevant.”
Question 14. Do you consider that GPs’ engagement with the firearms licensing process should be made mandatory?
YES vital. This was agreed as a part of the continuous monitoring system to allow a ten year renewal cycle, and the lack of it has been the weakest link in the system.
Question 15. Do you consider that interim medical checks should be made on licensed firearms holders between the grant of the certificate and any application to renew?
NO The continuous monitoring system covers this, and to add extra checks would put pressure on an already overloaded medical system. There seems little evidence that this would provide any benefits.
Question 16. Do you consider that the digital marker for use by GPs on the medical records of licensed firearms holders should be visible to other health professionals?
YES It shouldn’t currently be the case, but we know that in fact this marker is being shared with other medical agencies despite the data protection regulations.
Question 17. Do you consider there should be more mental health advice and support for licensed firearms holders through, for example, advice leaflets and other such support?
YES but handled with delicacy – the revocation of a certificate has a surprisingly great impact on a sporting shooter’s self-esteem, and can result in the loss of peer support, if only in the shooter’s own view. It can remove the shooter from his or her sporting friends and colleagues, and thus from their support. Revocation is often seen as a stigma.
Question 18. Do you consider a specific phoneline should be introduced in addition to the services already available to report concerns about a licensed firearms holder?
NO If firearms licensing departments were to make their telephone details available – at least during office hours – that would help greatly, at the same saving the expense of setting up a separate system.
Question 19. How in principle should any specific phoneline be funded?
- Public funding
- Other source of funding This is a “have you stopped beating your wife” question. Leave the question, or “Public funding” as it is for the public safety.
NO There are a number of people and organisations who do not have the best interests of the shooting sports in mind. Firearms Licensing contacts, ( see Q 18) yes, but the other systems are largely there to deal with criminal acts, and associating the largely law-abiding certificate holders with criminals in the public mind would be counter-productive, as it would create a barrier between them and the police.
Question 21. If you have any comments on the subject matter of this consultation, please enter below.
1/6/23 We have been alerted to a cyber attack on the NSRA, but this should not affect our members unless anyone is an individual member of the NSRA -see -
https://www.nsra.co.uk/index.php/news/3954-press-release-cyber-attack
https://www.nsra.co.uk/index.php/news/3954-press-release-cyber-attack
LEAD AMMUNITION
|
REACH UK - it appears we spoke too soon. 23/3/21.
Just when we thought it had gone away with our exit from Europe, the threat to ban lead in all ammunition has been raised by an new UK department of the HSE called REACH - the Registration,Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of Chemicals. The title says it all.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/plans-announced-to-phase-out-lead-ammunition-in-bid-to-protect-wildlife While the thrust of the initiative is “to protect wildlife and nature” It would be be naive in the extreme to believe that this will not affect ALL ammunition sometime in the future. We don’t know where this is going, and unfortunately a number of game shooting organisations - including BASC - are supporting this move. We will try to keep abreast of this issue through the British Shooting Sports Council. (BSSC) 18/2/21
The threat to abolish lead in ammunition in the UK (with the exception of Northern Ireland) has been averted. [Much of this is due to the work of the British Shooting Sports Council.] Because the EU regulation was passed after the date of the UK's exit from Europe, and it was not a part on any exit agreement, we can continue to use lead ammunition as before. We'd like to thank those members who took the time to complete the consultation, which contributed towards further discussions, which in turn led to the delay in implementation in Europe until after the UK had left. Unfortunately this does NOT apply to Northern Ireland, for reasons which are not fully understood. |
|
30th March 2020
We received this through the British Shooting Sports Council.
It is particularly important to schools who fall within the metropolitan Police area.
It is very refreshing to see such an open, honest and helpful communication from a police firearms licensing team !
We received this through the British Shooting Sports Council.
It is particularly important to schools who fall within the metropolitan Police area.
It is very refreshing to see such an open, honest and helpful communication from a police firearms licensing team !
A message from Inspector Chris Downs of the Metropolitan Police Firearms Licensing Team.
"Dear All,
I don’t think it will come as a surprise to anyone that all public services, the Metropolitan Police Service included, are currently finding themselves operating in very difficult and rapidly changing environment. As a result I have had to make some difficult decisions in order to maintain our core business during this period and I have summarised these below for your information.
Renewals of all certification will take place via remote assessment via video, on the most widely available electronic mediums, and telephones calls.
We will take absolutely every measure to avoid certificate holders going in to unlawful possession but there may be some occasions where this is unavoidable. I am sensitive to the closure of RFDs but we have secured cooperation from a number of these across London to provide emergency storage in the event of no other alternative. If you, your colleagues, members or friends find themselves in this position then please contact us electronically and we will assist in making the necessary arrangements.
Wherever possible we will aim to avoid the issue of temporary permits as this in turn creates an additional demand on the team that we can ill afford.
Currently we have placed all new grants and variations on hold until this situation is under control. I do not at this time intend to return the paperwork associated with new grants but will on request. Applications for variations are now in the process of being returned with an explanatory note.
Responses to requests for materials for appeals will also be subject for delays but again we will make every effort to service this demand.
In terms of the bigger picture we have now reached the point where my staff and I will be required to assist the policing response across the Capital. This does not mean that our business will stop but does means that it will be maintained by absolutely minimal staff from Monday onwards and there may be service disruptions which occur at short notice.
As our partners in this endeavour I ask for your patience and understanding as we deal with these unprecedented times and your assistance in ensuring that our customers continue to receive the best possible service that we can offer.
The key messages I would ask for your help in delivering are:
With kind regards and wishing you all the best for the future.
Inspector Chris Downs
Firearms Enquiry Team
Tactical Firearms Commander - MxA38"
"Dear All,
I don’t think it will come as a surprise to anyone that all public services, the Metropolitan Police Service included, are currently finding themselves operating in very difficult and rapidly changing environment. As a result I have had to make some difficult decisions in order to maintain our core business during this period and I have summarised these below for your information.
Renewals of all certification will take place via remote assessment via video, on the most widely available electronic mediums, and telephones calls.
We will take absolutely every measure to avoid certificate holders going in to unlawful possession but there may be some occasions where this is unavoidable. I am sensitive to the closure of RFDs but we have secured cooperation from a number of these across London to provide emergency storage in the event of no other alternative. If you, your colleagues, members or friends find themselves in this position then please contact us electronically and we will assist in making the necessary arrangements.
Wherever possible we will aim to avoid the issue of temporary permits as this in turn creates an additional demand on the team that we can ill afford.
Currently we have placed all new grants and variations on hold until this situation is under control. I do not at this time intend to return the paperwork associated with new grants but will on request. Applications for variations are now in the process of being returned with an explanatory note.
Responses to requests for materials for appeals will also be subject for delays but again we will make every effort to service this demand.
In terms of the bigger picture we have now reached the point where my staff and I will be required to assist the policing response across the Capital. This does not mean that our business will stop but does means that it will be maintained by absolutely minimal staff from Monday onwards and there may be service disruptions which occur at short notice.
As our partners in this endeavour I ask for your patience and understanding as we deal with these unprecedented times and your assistance in ensuring that our customers continue to receive the best possible service that we can offer.
The key messages I would ask for your help in delivering are:
- We remain committed to providing our service and Firearms Licensing remains a priority for the MPS.
- That we are suffering disruption to our normal service due to these extraordinary circumstances.
- Only contact us when absolutely necessary and please utilise the internet based options to do so (Email - [email protected] or general enquiry form found at https://www.met.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fi/af/firearms-licensing/mht/contact-firearms-team/ )
- Existing certificate holders should apply early (12 - 16 weeks) for at least the next six months in order to secure the statutory extension and give us the best possible opportunity to renew within time.
- If anyone finds themselves requiring renewal at timescales shorter than that described above they should make their renewal application electronically and follow this with an electronic contact to our office. We have a process in place to offer assistance in these circumstances but this is the most efficient way to access our services.
- We will be sympathetic to issues that shooters may experience in having opportunity to access ranges and shoots during these difficult times. This will be taken into consideration when we are considering evidence of continuing “good reason”
- We are well aware of the pressure felt across the NHS and will work together with our shooters and health partners to ensure a pragmatic approach is taken to addressing any medical issues raised.
With kind regards and wishing you all the best for the future.
Inspector Chris Downs
Firearms Enquiry Team
Tactical Firearms Commander - MxA38"
Deactivated firearms guide
If you have any deactivated firearms, this guide will be of use to you in navigating the complexities of latest (last?!) piece of EU legislation.
It has been prepared for us by the Deactivated Weapons Association (DWA) through our membership of the British Shooting Shooting Sports Council (BSSC.)
It has been prepared for us by the Deactivated Weapons Association (DWA) through our membership of the British Shooting Shooting Sports Council (BSSC.)
Changes in the law relating to people under 18 who have a firearm or shotgun certificate
The changes to the Firearms Act affect England, Wales and Scotland came into effect on 12th
December 2019.
These Rules change the law to ensure that, where a person under 18 is
permitted to acquire or possess a shotgun or firearm and ammunition, an appropriate adult
assumes responsibility for its secure storage.
The person assuming responsibility must be:
a) the holder’s parent or guardian or
b) a person aged eighteen or over who is authorised under the principal Act to have
possession of such firearms and ammunition.
The changes to the Firearms Act affect England, Wales and Scotland came into effect on 12th
December 2019.
These Rules change the law to ensure that, where a person under 18 is
permitted to acquire or possess a shotgun or firearm and ammunition, an appropriate adult
assumes responsibility for its secure storage.
The person assuming responsibility must be:
a) the holder’s parent or guardian or
b) a person aged eighteen or over who is authorised under the principal Act to have
possession of such firearms and ammunition.
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New Home Office fees for school shooting club approval to take effect
The Home Office has published a circular describing the effect of the Firearms (Fees) Regulations 2019. The regulations apply in England and Wales and in Scotland, and come into force on 1 October 2019. They introduce new fees for museum firearm licences, club approval and section 5 authorisations. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/circular-0062019-firearms-fees-regulations-2019 This follows the publication of the Government’s response to the consultation on fees on 19 June, which is available at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/firearms-licensing-fees You will see that the original draconian fee structure has been at least softened by our responses - particularly through the British Shooting Sports Council; however as is often the way with government consultations, the Home Office had already decided to impose the new fees, but then "consulted" those affected afterwards. PERSONAL SECURITY ADVICE
[URGENT UPDATE 5/10/18] The British Shooting Sports Council has just made us aware of a circulation from the National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NaBIS) informing us that a number of firearm and shotgun certificate holders have had their details published on-line. This is the advice they are giving certificate holders:
As Firearm or Shotgun certificate holders, we should all be aware of the risks from criminals wishing to obtain our guns illegally. The Firearm Security Handbook 2005 at - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/firearms-handbook-2005 Gives plenty of advice, but to bring it up to date a bit - we advise individual certificate holders, and those traveling with firearms - 1. DO NOT post information about the dates and/or places of your future shooting activities on Facebook, Instagram etc. as this will alert anyone with criminal intent to the whereabouts of firearms, and the fact that your home may be unoccupied. 2. DO NOT give away information on such public websites which could identify you personally as a firearm certificate holder (IE: full name, or home address, details for shooting activities etc.) 3.When traveling to and from shooting venues, be aware of the potential for a criminal to follow you. 4. When loading/unloading firearms etc from vehicles, be aware of your surroundings - anyone or anything suspicious? Move on. 5. Note the registered numbers of any vehicles you believe to be suspicious or unusual at your shooting venue, school or home. 6. Be aware of local police station (if any, nowadays!) so that if you believe your vehicle is being followed by someone with evil intent, you can go there for safety. PSRA COACHING MANUAL
We have had much to thank Nigel Curtis for over the years, and now he's distilled his wisdom into this coaching manual for us all to take advantage of his many years of experience. 
The Home Office have announced that they will be imposing massive increases in fees to clubs and schools
The current fee for grant of Home Office approval of school target shooting clubs is £84. The Home Office have decided that this will now be £444. They will also start charging for any changes in the club such as changes of ranges, changes of club name, or changes of secretary - although it's not yet exactly clear which change will attract which fee. Renewals will cost £372, and other changes will attract fees of £300, £206 and £36. Exactly how they have arrived at these figures is a mystery - as the police - not the Home Office - do the enquiries, which is where any real costs might be involved. One is left with the impression that either: a) The Home Office staff are grossly overpaid, or b) They are incredibly inefficient It seems that little notice has been paid to the educational and social benefits of our sport - maybe we should apply for a grant from the DCMS to assist us with the increase in Home Office fees ? British Shooting Sports Council Meeting - January 2018
We attended this 4 hour marathon meeting after leaving home at 04:00 - getting back at 23:00; a long day but very interesting. MANY different matters were discussed, and the BSSC are now arranging a meeting with the Minister to discuss the matter of airgun licensing and club/school fees - among other items. Our first Report from the British Shooting Sports Council
We were elected to the BSSC just too late to be included in their Annual Report, but it was good to note that it is growing, with the Scottish Association for Country Sports (SACS) and the Deactivated Weapons Association (DWA) joining in March & June respectively. The report is some 20 pages long detailing the council's activities during the past year, and rather than providing fine detail I'll just cover the headline discussions in which the Council had input -
I will be attending the next BSSC meeting in mid-September, and if any member schools has any concerns about proposed (or even rumoured!) legislation/regulation, please let me know before then. Mary Eveleigh Secretary. [12/8/17] The British Shooting Sports Council
Following a unanimous decision at our AGM, we applied for membership of the British Shooting Sports Council of the UK. We have just been told that we have been elected as a member of the council. This means we will now have regular contact with all the other major shooting organisations in the UK, and will be able to exchange knowledge and expertise. As well as this, it will give us access to decision makers in Government, the Home Office and Police Organisations. It will also increase our profile in the shooting world. [28/6/17] Licensing airguns in Scotland
The Scottish Air Weapons and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2015 came into effect on 31st December 2016. We are still unsure of several parts of the law relating to the use in schools, (which appear to have been forgotten during the drafting of the bill) although there are exemptions for "airgun clubs" and "recreational facilities" involving airguns which may be of use to us. BASC has a webpage devoted to the subject which may help you - basc.org.uk/basc-scotland/airguns-in-scotland/ [December 2017] There is an article about the PSRA in the Shooting Times - and they've kindly allowed us to use it here on our website. See - THE PSRA in the SHOOTING TIMES. Secretary takes gold!
At the Jersey Supershot Challenge in June 2017, held on the beautiful Crabbe ranges in Jersey, Mary Eveleigh took the gold medal in the Ladies class - again ! The competition comprised of 6 different disciplines: Air Pistol Archery Clay Pigeons Fullbore rifle 300 yards Smallbore rifle at 50 yards .22 pistol Mary was a part of the "Phoenix Away" team, which also claimed Silver in the team events. [December 2017] |
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