Home Office firearms licensing statistics highlight need for urgent reform

BASC has responded to the latest Home Office figures on firearm and shotgun certificates by renewing its call for urgent and systemic reform of the UK’s firearms licensing framework.

The statistics for April 2024 to March 2025 show an overall decline in certificate holders in England and Wales, including a one per cent drop in firearm certificates, a three per cent drop in shotgun certificates, and a three per cent fall in the number of individual holders. 

BASC warns that these figures reflect more than just demographic change; they are a direct consequence of a fractured and inefficient licensing system that is deterring lawful participation and putting livelihoods at risk.

Delays and inconsistency continue to define firearms licensing across the UK, with some forces taking over a year to process applications. BASC and Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP’s intervention earlier this year saw Gloucestershire Constabulary reverse its decision to suspend all new grants. Despite a 133 per cent increase in licensing fees intended to improve service delivery, many forces have yet to confirm that this income is being ringfenced for licensing improvements.

BASC has consistently warned that rising costs, opaque decision-making, and poor service delivery are not only undermining public confidence in the system but are also threatening thousands of jobs that depend on sustainable shooting. At a recent meeting with the Policing Minister, BASC secured assurances that performance and accountability would be addressed.

BASC is calling for a single, efficient, cost-effective, and robust system of firearms licensing which protects public safety while delivering high-quality service to the shooting community. This must include statutory obligations for all parties in the licensing process, including GPs, whose participation is voluntary, and the creation of a dedicated national licensing body to replace the disparate processes currently administered by 43 separate police forces.

“The case for a national body with common standards and proper oversight is overwhelming,” said BASC’s director of firearms, Bill Harriman. “Without bold reform, we risk further decline, poorer public service, and lasting damage to a sector that contributes £3.3bn to the UK economy and £500m worth of conservation across the UK.”

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