43 forces, one failing system: The good and the bad of the HMICFRS report
Bill Harriman discusses the HMICFRS’ call for a single firearms licensing authority and why other recommendations in its report are being firmly rejected.
Government announces ‘stronger’ firearms licensing safeguards
The Home Office has announced that people applying for a firearm or shotgun certificate will face stronger safety checks under new rules to help keep the public safe.
Applicants will be required to declare any second homes where firearms could be stored, enabling police to conduct appropriate security checks and notify the relevant force where necessary.
You also need to tell police about all people living in their household so they can identify any wider safety concerns, including risks linked to domestic abuse or mental wellbeing.
The Home Office says further measures will strengthen medical checks throughout the five-year life of a firearm or shotgun certificate. Certificate holders will be required to tell police if they are diagnosed with, or receive treatment for, a relevant medical condition, or if an existing condition gets worse.
Licensing decisions
You will also need to inform police if you seek treatment or advice from an online or private doctor rather than your GP, helping ensure licensing decisions are based on the most up-to-date information available.
A one-month transition period applies from 29 September 2026, during which applicants will still be able to submit existing application forms. From 29 October 2026, only the revised forms will be accepted.
BASC director of firearms Bill Harriman said: “The real solution to improving public safety and efficiency is the position BASC has long advocated for – that is for firearms licensing in England and Wales to be removed from the current structure of 43 separate police forces and delivered through a dedicated national authority with common standards, clear accountability and appropriate resources.”
If you need advice or guidance on firearms law and licensing, head to our advice hub here.
Share
BASC welcomes single licensing authority but rejects Section 2 recommendation
BASC has welcomed HMICFRS’s call for a single firearms licensing authority but firmly rejected its recommendation on Section 2 shotgun certificates.
BASC and Hampshire Police team up at New Forest Show
BASC and Hampshire Police answered firearms licensing questions at the New Forest Show and will team up again at Hampshire Countryside Day.