§ Mr. Farrasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what considerations are presently under discussion in the Council of Europe to complement the European convention on the control of the acquisition and possession of firearms by individuals.
§ Mr. WhitelawThe Council of Europe Committee on Crime Problems has had some confidential discussions about possible ways of harmonising member States' firearms laws. These discussions are likely to be continued in the New Year.
§ Mr. Farrasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department which member States of the Council of Europe are currently signatories to the European convention on the control of the acquisition and possession of firearms by individuals; whether any legislation arising from this convention is contemplated in the United Kingdom; and, if so, what measures are to be proposed.
§ Mr. WhitelawDenmark, the Federal Republic of Germany, Luxemburg, the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom have signed the convention. Some minor amendments to the Firearms Act are needed before we can ratify the convention. These are under consideration.