§ Miss Emma NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what sums in compensation have been paid to owners of weapons voluntarily surrendered since the Hungerford killings under specific agreements made with the police; and what Government payments are outstanding in respect of claims for compensation. [7742]
§ Miss WiddecombeThere have been two Government schemes since 1987 where people have received payments in exchange for surrendering weapons which became prohibited under the firearms legislation. A total of £620,000 was paid in relation to claims following the Firearms (Amendment) Act 1988. A total of £42,000 was paid in relation to claims following the Firearms (Amendment) Regulations 1992. The Department has considered all claims made under these schemes and advised claimants of the outcome. Offers have been made to all claimants entitled to receive compensation.