§ 32. Mr. Manderasked the Home Secretary whether he will consider the advisability of granting an amnesty to those persons who now possess undeclared weapons of defence, with a view to encouraging their surrender at the present time?
§ Sir J. AndersonIt is already the practice of the police to accept without formalities any firearms or ammunition voluntarily surrendered, and if there was any doubt on this point in the minds of members of the public, I hope it will be removed by the publicity given by this Question and answer.
§ Mr. ManderIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a considerable quantity of arms is probably in the hands of private individuals, who do not like to bring them forward because there is the possibility of a fine of £50? Will the right hon. Gentleman make it clear that no proceedings will be taken in those cases if the people concerned surrender the arms?
§ Sir J. AndersonI thought my answer was so drawn as, in conjunction with my hon. Friend's Question, to make that point quite clear.
§ Mr. TurtonIs my right hon. Friend aware that there are many serving officers and warrant officers to whom pistols and revolvers will be very acceptable? Will he make an appeal for all who have any pistols or revolvers to place them at the disposal of the authorities?
§ Sir J. AndersonAction has already been taken on those lines.