BASC represents shooting interests in talks about online firearms licensing
Plans to introduce online applications for firearm and shotgun certificates are being developed by the government and the police. Online application and payment is seen as a way of improving the efficiency, effectiveness and consistency of the firearms licensing process.
Some of the benefits being discussed include the ability to notify the sale or transfer of firearms and shotguns, notifications of change of address, and a system to allow gun owners to track the progress of their applications online.
BASC’s senior firearm officer Mike Eveleigh has been representing shooting interests at the stakeholder meetings at the Home Office.
Bill Harriman, Director of Firearms at BASC said; “BASC supports measures to introduce online applications and payment. These could benefit those who shoot by providing efficiency and consistency in processing applications. They could also keep a downwards pressure on costs for both the police and those who shoot. It’s important that introducing such systems is done efficiently and with the interests of those involved properly taken into account. BASC will ensure that the needs of the customers – those who shoot in the UK, are fully represented.”
BASC Council member Peter Glenser, a barrister who specialises in firearms law said; "We welcome any moves to streamline the licensing process and eliminate the unacceptable delays that many gun owners currently experience. But clearly, an online system must be practicable and BASC’s participation will ensure that the needs of those who use the system are properly addressed."
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