§ Mr. Lubbockasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many applications have been made for firearms certificates under the Firearms Act, 1968; how many of these have been granted and rejected and how many are pending, respectively; and, in each case, if he will give separate figures for shotguns.
§ Mr. Elystan MorganShot gun certificates became compulsory on 1st May, 1968. By 31st October, 1968, 603,496 applications for shot gun certificates had been made to the police in England and Wales; 601,988 certificates had been issued: and 1,013 applications had been refused. During the same period 1,379114W applications were made for visitors' certificates, all of which were granted. I am obtaining from chief officers of police the information about firearm certificates requested in the first two parts of the Question, and will write to the hon. Member.