
Government’s justification for firearms fees increase ‘bogus’, says BASC
On the day the new fees came into effect, only seven of 42 constabularies had guaranteed the funds would go towards improving firearms licensing.
Get information on the legal shooting season for mammals and birds in the UK.
Apply for funding for your project or make a donation today
Comprehensive information and advice from our specialist firearms team.
Everything you need to know about shotgun, rifle and airgun ammunition.
Find our up-to-date information, advice and links to government resources.
Everything you need to know on firearms law and licensing.
All the latest news and advice on general licences and how they affect you.
BASC has said that it will not accept “rewarding failure” in the upcoming review of firearms licensing fees in England, Scotland and Wales.
The review has been launched by the Home Office and a Fees Working Group has been set up, which includes representatives from BASC and the British Shooting Sports Council. The working group’s first meeting will be in April.
The most recent review of fees prior to this point was in 2014.
Discussing the review, Bill Harriman, BASC director of firearms, said: “The evidence-led process was extremely effective in 2014. So long as the same principles are followed there is no reason that we should expect anything less in 2022.
“BASC is committed to participating in the Fees Working Group but warns government that the current crisis in firearms licensing will not be solved by increasing fees alone.
“As some licensing departments continue to deliver an effective service, it is clear that the current fee structure is not to blame for those licensing departments experiencing lengthy delays and growing backlogs.
“Rewarding failure is not an option, we need every licensing department to have their house in order before fees are increased.
BASC’s key requirements are as follows:
We will continue to keep members up to date with the Fees Working Group progress.
On the day the new fees came into effect, only seven of 42 constabularies had guaranteed the funds would go towards improving firearms licensing.
Read our stance on the lead ammunition restriction proposals in England, Wales and Scotland, plus guidance on having your say through the public consultation.
BASC made contact with the Labour Party earlier this week following statements by Sir Keir Starmer regarding the firearms licensing process.
Sign up to our weekly newsletter and get all the latest updates straight to your inbox.
© 2025 British Association for Shooting and Conservation. Registered Office: Marford Mill, Rossett, Wrexham, LL12 0HL – Registered Society No: 28488R. BASC is a trading name of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm reference number 311937.
BASC Direct Ltd is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Agria Pet Insurance Ltd who administer the insurance and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register Number 496160. Agria Pet Insurance is registered and incorporated in England and Wales with registered number 04258783. Registered office: First Floor, Blue Leanie, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 7QW. Agria insurance policies are underwritten by Agria Försäkring.
If you have any questions or complaints about your BASC membership insurance cover, please email us. More information about resolving complaints can be found on the FCA website or on the EU ODR platform.