HC Deb 06 March 1980 vol 980 cc292-3W
22. Mr. Speller

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will now make a statement upon his proposals for any changes in firearm regulations and increased police control relating to shotguns, small bore target rifles and pistols.

Mr. Whitelaw

I have no plans to introduce legislation to amend the law relating to firearms.

Having studied carefully the scope of the existing legislation and the extent of misuse of firearms, I am not persuaded that more stringent controls would have a significant effect on the level of crime, or that the extra work that would result for the police service would be justified.

I am, however, aware of the concern felt in many parts of the country over the misuse of air weapons, and will continue to consider ways in which the risk to the general public may be reduced.

I am also concerned that all who possess and use firearms should be fully aware of the need for great care in their use, and for adequate security arrangements to ensure that the weapons do not fall into the wrong hands. I have therefore asked the British Shooting Sports Council to draw up a voluntary code of conduct in conjunction with the police service and with my officials. This it has agreed to do.

An order increasing the level of fees charged under the firearms legislation will be laid before the House shortly.