§ Mr. Nigel JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what consultation has taken place with sports governing bodies regarding banning of shooting competitions; and if he will make a statement. [7992]
§ Mr. BanksThe Home Office has lead responsibility for firearms legislation and has been in regular contact with the British Shooting Sports Council and other organisations. I understand there has been no formal consultation exercise with specific sports bodies. Under the Firearms (Amendment) Bill, small calibre pistols would become prohibited but special arrangements may be made by the relevant Secretary of State to permit shooting events using these pistols to take place in any future Commonwealth and Olympic Games held in Great Britain.