HC Deb 12 July 1956 vol 556 cc589-90
52. Major Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what advice he has given to the police re- garding the confiscation of antique firearms.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department and Minister for Welsh Affairs (Major Gwilym Lloyd-George)

I have given no advice to the police on this subject. The Firearms Act, 1937, which regulates the manufacture, sale and possession of firearms, does not apply to antique firearms kept as curiosities or ornaments, and the police were so informed when the Act came into operation.

Major Wall

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that there have been numerous occasions recently when the police have confiscated antique firearms no more dangerous than the kitchen poker? Is he aware that this action does not accord with Section 33 of the Firearms Act, 1937, and will he see that this practice is stopped?

Major Lloyd-George

I could not agree with my hon. and gallant Friend about the innocence of the kitchen poker, but I am quite prepared to consider any case that he is prepared to bring to my attention.

Back to