HC Deb 06 February 1996 vol 271 c162W
Mr. Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what are the grounds for eligibility for holding a firearm certificate. [12846]

Sir John Wheeler

I refer the hon. Member to the reply given to him on 18 January 1996,Official Report, column 716. Under the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, a firearm certificate shall not be granted unless the Chief Constable is satisfied that

  • the firearm could be held without danger to public safety or to the peace;
  • the applicant is fitted to hold a firearm;
  • the applicant has "good reason" for the firearm;
  • the applicant is not prohibited from holding a firearm by virtue of article 22 of the order;
  • the applicant is 18 years of age or more.