
BASC opposes ban on snares in Wales
BASC opposes a proposal to ban snares in Wales and is calling on the Welsh Government to justify the plans by producing scientific evidence.
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 welcomed a significant step forward in firearms licensing procedures in Gloucestershire following our sustained pressure and engagement with the county’s new Chief Constable and the Police and Crime Commissioner.
Despite having announced they were not accepting any grant applications, and that existing applications would take a minimum of two years, Gloucestershire Constabulary has now confirmed that firearm and shotgun grant applications will be reopened on 2 December 2024.
This development is welcome news for firearms users across the county, who have faced delays and uncertainty in obtaining the certificates critical for their livelihoods, sports, and conservation work.
In response to concerns raised by BASC and our members in Gloucestershire, the constabulary has committed to:
The measures reflect BASC’s call for fair and efficient firearms licensing. The reopening of grant applications represents a tangible outcome of our efforts to safeguard the interests of firearms users while supporting the force in meeting its statutory responsibilities.
BASC’s head of firearms, Martin Parker, said: “This decision is a testament to BASC’s ongoing commitment to ensuring firearms licensing operates effectively and in the interests of our members. We’d like to thank all our members who wrote to their MPs, the Police and Crime Commissioner and Chief Constable – without their support this wouldn’t have happened. We would also like to thank Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP for meeting the Chief Constable to raise the issue.
“The delays and uncertainty in Gloucestershire were unacceptable, and we are proud to have played a leading role in driving the changes necessary to resolve this issue. We look forward to our meeting with the Assistant Chief Constable on 5 Dec, and we will continue to work closely with the constabulary to monitor progress and ensure the swift delivery of these improvements.”
For advice and guidance on firearms licensing, head to our dedicated advice hub here.
BASC opposes a proposal to ban snares in Wales and is calling on the Welsh Government to justify the plans by producing scientific evidence.
The Chief Constable of Cumbria police has committed additional resources to firearms licensing in the region to cut delays for certificate renewals.
Environment Secretary George Eustice MP has highlighted the conservation credentials of shooting during the Conservative Conference in Manchester.