§ Lord Hardy of Wathasked Her Majesty's Government:
In how many cases have private individuals been given permission to employ security staff and bodyguards equipped with firearms; which public organisations or authorities have given consent to such employment; and whether Ministers have been consulted or have given approval to such consent. [HL3687]
§ Lord Williams of MostynIt has long been the policy in mainland Britain for the police not to issue firearm certificates to individuals who wish to possess firearms for personal protection, or for the protection of their employers or other individuals. Handguns are now prohibited weapons which may only be possessed by virtue of the express authority of the Secretary of State. That authority has not been granted for the protection of private citizens or property.
In Northern Ireland, because of the particular circumstances in the Province, the legislation does allow the Chief Officer of the Royal Ulster Constabulary to issue permits for firearms for self-protection. Such weapons are allowed solely for the protection of the holder and permits are never issued to personal bodyguards or private security staff. At present, there are some 9,500 personal protection weapons held on permit in Northern Ireland.