HC Deb 11 May 1984 vol 59 c482W
Mr. Lawrence

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will seek to require all accredited diplomatic representatives of a foreign power to obtain licences or register firearms in their possession.

Mr. Mellor

By virtue of article 41 of the Vienna convention on diplomatic relations 1961, accredited diplomats are already expected to comply with the law and accordingly to hold a firearm or shotgun certificate as appropriate in respect of any firearm in their possession. Diplomatic missions are regularly reminded of this requirement.

As previously announced, the review instituted by my right hon. and learned Friend the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary will consider the convention's operation and enforceability.