BASC statement in response to Keyham coroner’s report

In response to the coroner publishing a report into the shootings in Keyham, BASC has released the following statement:

“BASC is clear that we need a system of licensing that protects public safety and also provides an efficient service. It is plain to see that that system was absent in Keyham with tragic consequences.

“BASC has previously written to the coroner to outline key steps that could help prevent future shootings. We will take time to consider the coroner’s report to the Home Office in detail.

“We have previously asked for the creation of a national regulator to monitor and manage both firearms licensing and the training of police staff and officers to improved standards.

“We also want a system that ensures the medical profession has a statutory obligation to engage fully with the licensing process and puts markers on the medical notes of certificate holders so that their health can be monitored for the life of the certificate.

“However, while supportive of considered measures that improve public safety, we would warn against any recommendation to remove the distinction between processes and requirements in relation to shotgun and firearms certificate holders.

“This would impose an unnecessary burden that would do nothing to improve public safety. Indeed, it would place a further, unmanageable workload on firearms licensing teams that are already failing to meet their statutory obligations to protect the public. That recommendation, if implemented, would have a significant, detrimental impact on the service the police are able to provide to the community.

“BASC will meet with government to ensure that the views of the shooting community are represented and that the change needed to protect public safety is proportionate, effective and are not at the cost of the lawful, legitimate firearms community.”