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The Firearms (Amendment) Bill - Clause 1: Introducing a new offence for unlawful manufacture of ammunition; Clause 2: Requiring firearms certificates for operators of miniature rifle ranges
03 March 2023
Lead MP
Simon Baynes
Debate Type
Bill Debate
Tags
No tags
Other Contributors: 6
At a Glance
Simon Baynes raised concerns about the firearms (amendment) bill - clause 1: introducing a new offence for unlawful manufacture of ammunition; clause 2: requiring firearms certificates for operators of miniature rifle ranges in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The Bill seeks to strengthen firearms controls by introducing a new offence against the unlawful manufacture of ammunition and requiring operators of miniature rifle ranges to obtain firearms certificates. The current loophole allows unregulated possession of component parts for ammunition and operation of mini-rifle ranges, which can be exploited by criminals or terrorists. The Bill addresses these concerns while maintaining legitimate use cases.
Greg Smith
Con
Mid Buckinghamshire
Supports the Bill for closing a loophole that allows unregulated possession of firearms components and operation of miniature rifle ranges. Emphasises that it ensures proper checks without hindering legitimate shooting sports.
Jonathan Gullis
Lab
Stoke-on-Trent North
Welcomes the Bill as an application of common sense to close loopholes in firearms law. Emphasises that it supports responsible gun ownership while enabling police checks for proper licensing, particularly important for protecting under-18s.
Jane Hunt
Con
Loughborough
Supports the Bill to improve public safety by introducing stricter controls on miniature rifle ranges, requiring operators to have firearms licences and undergo background checks. Emphasises that these measures do not stifle sport but create a safer environment for those involved in target shooting.
Stephen Kinnock
Lab
Aberavon Maesteg
Compliments the Bill’s intent to regulate miniature rifle ranges and introduce an offence for possessing component parts of ammunition. Questions the Government about the timeline for implementing these changes and seeks more detailed information on addressing technological advancements like 3D printing, as well as improvements in firearms licensing processes.
Chris Philp
Con
Croydon South
Confirms the Government's support for the Bill and answers questions raised by the shadow Minister. Discusses plans to review fees charged for firearms licensing, accreditation of firearms examination officers, addressing firearms backlogs, and considers recommendations from various reports to prevent future tragedies.
Simon Baynes
Con
Leeds West
He thanked colleagues for their support and highlighted key points raised during the debate. He emphasised that the Bill aims to close loopholes and increase safety, not to stifle sport or be anti-ranges. Baynes acknowledged the contributions of several MPs who supported the bill's objectives and praised the Minister for his experience and commitment in supporting the legislation.
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