The UK’s largest shooting organisation, the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) which represents 130,000 members has expressed its deep shock at the murders in Cumbria and extends its sympathy to the victims and their families.
BASC spokesman Simon Clarke said: “The events unfolding in Cumbria are tragic and shocking and as representatives of Britain’s lawful gun owners BASC would like to make clear its deeply felt sorrow at these events which will have long-lasting repercussions within the affected families and communities.”
“This is still a live police operation. The police must be given time to fully investigate the circumstances which have led up to today and we will be in touch with them and other relevant agencies to offer any help and assistance we can.”
Britain’s firearms licensing system is amongst the toughest in the world and includes numerous safety and medical checks and balances. The UK has a well-worked approach to draw all possible lessons from any such event and we will co-operate fully where our expertise is appropriate.”
ENDS
For more information please call the BASC press office on 01244 573031. An ISDN line is available for radio interviews.
Click here to watch BASC’s Mike Eveleigh on newsnight 2/6/2010