HC Deb 05 February 1996 vol 271 cc75-6W
Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what percentage of the adult male population in Northern Ireland holds a firearm certificate. [12845]

Sir John Wheeler

At 30 November 1995, 88,092 persons held firearm certificates issued under the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 1981. A male/female breakdown of this figure could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. However, it represents approximately 15.65 percent, of the adult population1 of Northern Ireland.1 Based on the General Register Office, 1994 mid-year estimate.

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what measures he has taken, or proposes to take, to reduce the number of people who hold a firearm certificate. [12847]

Sir John Wheeler

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has not taken, nor is he proposing to take at this time, any measures specifically aimed at reducing the number of people who would otherwise be permitted to hold firearm certificates. The current review of the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 aims to ensure that the law strikes the right balance between individual and public safety and the maintenance of order, and reasonable expectations of those who wish to use firearms in a responsible and legitimate manner.

Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many holders of firearm certificates have used their weapons in incidents which led to their facing criminal charges in the past five years. [12848]

Sir John Wheeler

This information is not available in the form requested and to obtain it would incur disproportionate cost. However, the Chief Constable has advised that the number of incidents in which licensed firearm holders have used their own guns in the commission of a crime, within the past five years, is negligible.