HC Deb 16 January 1978 vol 942 c82W
Mr. Wm. Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the provision of firearms certificates is a service to the owners of firearms or is to enable the police to keep track of firearms among the general public in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Dunn

The purpose of firearm certificates, issued under the relevant legislation, is to protect the community by ensuring that the privilege of possessing authorised firearms is only extended to persons who have good reason to hold them, and will do so without danger to the public safety or to the peace.