BASC discussed medical involvement in firearms licensing during a meeting with policing minister Brandon Lewis.
The UK’s largest shooting organisation also thanked the government for clarifying firearms legislation as part of the new Policing and Crime Bill and welcomed the opportunity to discuss potential improvements in laws around expanding ammunition.
In addition, BASC praised the government, and Vicky Ford MEP, for taking a hardline stance in representing the lawful interests of the British shooting community as the European Commission considered proposals to amend the European Firearms Directive.
Bill Harriman, BASC’s director of firearms, said: “It was an extremely positive meeting and we are grateful that government continues to work with the people who have at heart the best interests of shooting. BASC is confident that government supports British shooting and wants to see it prosper.”
BASC chairman Peter Glenser said: “Down the years, BASC has made contact with every home office minister who has the potential to affect our members’ sport. We are delighted to continue that work with Brandon Lewis, who is acutely aware of the issues facing shooting.”
The Policing and Crime Bill, which is currently passing through parliament, contains provisions relating to Law Commission recommendations on firearms law, including:
- The simplification of the legal definition of the word ‘firearm’, including setting a new threshold of a firearm’s kinetic energy at 1 joule.
- The definition of an antique firearm – which makes the current guidance statutory.
- A new offence, targeted at criminals, of the possession of articles with intent to convert an imitation into a working firearm.
- New powers to charge fees, introduced by secondary legislation for licences, relating to section 5 firearms, museums and clubs.
- A new legal requirement for the police to have regard to the Home Office guidance when carrying out their licensing function.