§ Mr. SteelTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will issue guidance to chief constables to the effect that no alterations to firearms certificate should be made as a matter of general policy until such time as the Firearms Bill has been enacted and the compensation measures contained therein have been agreed by Parliament; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RifkindNo. Under the Firearms Act 1968, the chief constable has a duty to satisfy himself that an applicant for the issue or renewal of a firearm certificate has a good reason for having in his possession, or for purchasing or acquiring, the firearm or ammunition in respect of which application is made, and can be permitted to have it in his possession without danger to the public safety or to the peace. A person aggrieved by the refusal of a chief constable to grant or renew a certificate may appeal to the sheriff.