§ Mr. Proctorasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received urging tighter control for the issue of shotgun certificates; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawWe have received representations from various sources, including hon. Members, local authority associations, local authorities and police authorities, and members of the public. In 1984 these numbered approximately 50. The majority suggested that the controls which at present apply to pistols and rifles should be applied to shotguns. On that issue, I refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to a question from my hon. Friend, the Member for Banbury (Mr. Baldry) on 22 November 1984 at column246.
§ Sir John Farrasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the total cost of administering the firearm and shotgun licensing system, annually, at the latest available date and five years ago.
§ Mr. Giles ShawAnnual figures of costs and income are not held centrally and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. Surveys to provide such information were conducted in sample police forces in 1979 and 1981 from which it was estimated that in 1979–80 the total costs were £5,000,000 and the income £3,700,000; and in 1981–82 £5,398,707 and £4,376,631 respectively.