New firearms guidance issued by the Home Office aims to crack down on domestic violence by preventing those with violent histories from obtaining firearms or shotgun licences.
It says that every incident of domestic violence should prompt a review of whether a licence holder should continue to be allowed to hold firearms, describes partner interviews as “essential”, and adds that interviews with friends, family and associates may also be required.
The new licensing guidance requires police to receive independent character references on the applicant, speak to their GP and, if necessary, consult social services.
Shooting organisations have praised the new guidance. Speaking on Radio 4’s PM programme, BASC’s Mike Eveleigh said: “At last the system has been codified.
“We have 42 different police forces and largely they have been acting in their own ways. This will help to have some consistency in this area.”
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