HC Deb 19 June 1995 vol 262 cc49-50W
Mr. John D. Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many weapons are currently on issue for personal protection purposes in Northern Ireland. [28224]

Sir John Wheeler

The total number of firearms held at 30 April 1995, on foot of firearms certificates issued by the Chief Constable under article 28 of the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 1981. for personal protection purposes, was 10.418. Firearms certificates for personal protection weapons are issued only where the Chief Constable judges that the individual's life is at serious risk, and where other legal criteria have been satisfied.