HC Deb 25 May 1973 vol 857 cc195-6W
Mr. Faulds

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he consulted the Arms and Armour Society before publishing the Green Paper on Firearms Control.

Mr. Carlisle

No. But the purpose of publishing the Green Paper is to provide an opportunity for all interested bodies to make their views known.

Mr. Faulds

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what consultations his Department had with those interested in historic arms before the proposals in the Green Paper on Firearms Control were published.

Mr. Carlisle

The working party on whose report the Green Paper is based received and considered a memorandum submitted by the Imperial War Museum.

Publication of the Green Paper provides an opportunity for all interested persons and bodies to comment on the Government's proposals.

Mr. Faulds

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received on the effect of the proposals in the Green Paper on Firearms Control on the national stock of historic firearms.

Mr. Carlisle

Representations have been received on this aspect of the Government's proposals from two private individuals and from the Muzzle Loaders Association of Great Britain.

Mr. Faulds

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will extend from six weeks to six months the period allowed for discussion and consultation on the proposals contained in the Green Paper on Firearms Control.

Mr. Carlisle

No, because the need for improved controls over firearms is urgent and my right hon. Friend wants to be in a position to introduce legislation at the earliest possible opportunity.

Mr. Faulds

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received about the proposals in the Green Paper on Firearms Control in so far as they affect the private collector of firearms.

Mr. Carlisle

So far four letters have been received from members of the public, and two from hon. Members on behalf of constituents. Five of these letters were opposed to the proposal in the Green Paper that new collections of firearms should not be established and that existing ones should not be extended.