§ 28. Mr. LEVYasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the prevalence of attacks by armed criminals, he is considering means to restrict more effectively 1133 than at present the distribution of firearms; and, if so, what are the measures contemplated?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe control of firearms is regulated under the Firearms Act, 1920, which renders liable to penalties any person who is found in the possession of any firearm or ammunition, as defined in the Act, unless he is the holder of a firearm certificate granted by the chief officer of police of the district in which he resides. The Act also provides special penalties, up to penal servitude for 20 years, for any person who is found in possession of a firearm or ammunition with intent to endanger life or cause serious injury to property. I am considering whether any further powers are necessary. The prevention and detection of offences are matters for the police, and I have no reason to think that they do not exercise all possible vigilance in the matter.
§ Mr. LEVYWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his reply may I ask him, having regard to the fact that he is considering a tightening-up of the law in this respect, to proceed with all possible rapidity?