§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many handguns are legally held in Northern Ireland; and if he will provide a geographical breakdown of their locations. [227]
§ Sir John WheelerAt 30 September, 1996, the number of handguns held on firearm certificates in Northern Ireland was 12,872. Information on the geographical breakdown of their locations can be provided only at disproportionate cost.
§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will list the difference in respect of guidelines relating to the legal possession of handguns in(a) Northern Ireland and (b) Great Britain. [228]
§ Sir John WheelerUnder the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order, 1981, the Chief Constable is responsible for the administration of firearms licensing. His policy in relation to sporting handguns which was agreed with the Secretary of State is that a person cannot acquire a handgun unless he is able to show good reason for acquiring such a firearm and he has been a member of a registered firearms club for a minimum of 12 months; the application is supported by the secretary of the firearms club; and the police are content that he is a suitable person to hold such a weapon. In addition, the Chief Constable may approve the issue of a handgun where a person's life is believed to be under a serious and specific terrorist threat. In these circumstances the Chief Constable must satisfy himself that the individual is in all regards suitable to hold such a firearm and that his possession of the firearm does not pose a threat to the wider public safety.
282WMy right hon. and learned Friend the Home Secretary has lead policy responsibility for firearms legislation in Great Britain.