§ 39. Mr. WrayTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what initiatives he intends to take to stop the increase of murder and serious assaults by the use of firearms.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonVery strict controls are imposed on the acquisition and possession of firearms, one purpose of these measures being to restrict the ability of criminals to obtain firearms. Detecting illegally held firearms is a matter for the police who make strenuous efforts to prevent criminals acquiring firearms which they may subsequently use in committing crimes. The Government continue to provide substantial resources to assist the police in maintaining law and order: since 1979. police expenditure has risen by more than 50 per cent. in real terms. The Government will also continue to ensure that an adequate range of penalties is available to the courts to deal with crimes and offences involving firearms. With the assistance of the firearms consultative committee, the Government keep firearms control under continual review.