BASC warns Minister against shotgun–firearms licensing merger

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) met the new Policing Minister, Sarah Jones MP, on Wednesday 12 November, to raise concerns affecting the shooting community, including a forthcoming consultation on plans to merge shotgun and firearms licensing.

During the meeting with the Minister, BASC underlined the sector’s commitment to high standards and public safety, while stressing the need for an evidence-led approach to any future proposals. The association made clear its strong opposition to any plans to merge shotgun and firearms licensing.

The discussion also covered the performance of police licensing departments, the use of medical markers, and Firearms Enquiry Officer (FEO) training. BASC reaffirmed its support for the national rollout of FEO training and highlighted the need for greater consistency and efficiency within the licensing system.

On the same day as the meeting, BASC also delivered a keynote speech at a national firearms licensing conference.

BASC’s executive director of communications and public affairs, Christopher Graffius said:

“We welcomed the opportunity to meet the new Policing Minister and to set out our priorities on behalf of the shooting community.

“We made it clear that BASC will be fighting tooth and nail on behalf of our members and all those who shoot, against any attempts to merge shotgun and firearms licensing, and that we expect government decisions to be grounded in evidence, not ideology.

“We also raised our concerns about the Crimestoppers campaign in Cumbria and deterioration in the performance of licensing departments.

“BASC will continue to engage closely with the Home Office and policing partners to ensure that the licensing system protects public safety while working efficiently and proportionately for lawful certificate holders.”