New police guidance on firearms licensing “positive”, says BASC
Updated Authorised Professional Practice guidance around firearms licensing, issued by the College of Policing, has been hailed as beneficial by BASC.
Shotguns returned following pigeon shooting seizure
BASC has assisted with the return of shotguns to a group of pigeon shooters following their inappropriate seizure by Greater Manchester Police.
Several BASC members were out shooting pigeons in Lancashire when half a dozen armed police officers attended the scene.
Although those shooting were able to provide their shotgun certificates and the farmer confirmed their permission to control pigeons for crop protection, the armed police still seized their shotguns.
Following the shotguns being returned, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that they are undertaking an internal review into the incident. BASC has offered training to the officers, which is already being delivered across a number of other forces.
Duncan Thomas, BASC’s regional director for the north of England, said the decision was completely disproportionate and contacted the force immediately after the matter was first raised with BASC. In an interview with Fieldsports Channel he said he was hopeful that “there will be some learning out of the incident”.
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Devon and Cornwall firearms licensing in the spotlight
A BASC Freedom of Information request to Devon and Cornwall police has revealed that the firearms licensing department is currently revoking shotgun and firearms certificates at nine-times the rate of the last 13 years.
