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Firearms Licensing
23 February 2026
Lead MP
Ben Goldsborough
South Norfolk
Lab
Responding Minister
Sarah Jones
Tags
Policing & ResourcesCrime & Law EnforcementNHSAgriculture & Rural AffairsMental Health
Word Count: 24598
Other Contributors: 34
At a Glance
Ben Goldsborough raised concerns about firearms licensing in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The lead MP asks the government to ensure that any proposed changes are accompanied by robust economic modelling, including an analysis of the potential impact on rural businesses, employment, and participation. He also suggests taking clear steps to strengthen safety without imposing unnecessary burdens, such as ensuring licensing decisions are informed by full information and embracing digital technology to reduce delays.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The speaker is concerned about the need for legislative reform to ensure safety while protecting the shooting industry and rural economy. He highlights that strong views exist on both sides of the issue, but there is a broad agreement on the necessity for legislative change. The debate touches upon gun violence statistics in England and Wales, noting 4,851 firearms offences recorded in the year ending September 2025, with more than 60% of women killed by guns using licensed firearms. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes the risks associated with domestic abuse and mental health challenges in rural communities.
Al Pinkerton
Lib Dem
Surrey Heath
Al Pinkerton suggested the need for a centralised, digitised licensing regime to improve efficiency, citing his constituent's long wait for an address change on their firearm certificate.
Alistair Carmichael
Lib Dem
Orkney and Shetland
Questions whether centralisation of the DVLA is a suitable model for firearms licensing. Argues that merging section 1 and 2 licences may lead to worse outcomes if not properly addressed, expressing concern about losing sight of the original reasons for different classifications.
Andrew George
Lib Dem
St Ives
Asked if the Government should have an opportunity to review policies before implementing them, suggesting a need for evidence-based policymaking.
Angus MacDonald
Lib Dem
Inverness, Skye and West Ross-shire
Angus MacDonald questioned the definition of a farmer in the context of firearm regulations, suggesting that part-time workers or vermin controllers should also be considered.
Ashley Fox
Con
Bridgwater
The hon. Member raises concerns about aligning licences putting undue burden on shotgun owners and suppliers in Bridgwater, potentially increasing pressure on rural communities.
Ben Lake
PC
Ceredigion Preseli
Expresses concerns over the proposed merger of section 1 and section 2 firearms licences. Highlights that many safety checks are already in place and questions whether merging licenses will improve public safety significantly. Points out inconsistencies across licensing units, suggesting a centralised national body for more efficiency and consistency.
Blake Stephenson
Con
Mid Bedfordshire
The case of Nicholas Prosper in Bedfordshire highlighted serious vulnerabilities in the current firearms licensing system. Blake Stephenson emphasised the importance of real-time online certificate verification and expressed concerns about merging section 2 shotgun licensing with section 1 firearm licensing due to potential unintended consequences such as increased costs and delays for responsible shooters. He also mentioned unacceptable licensing delays, particularly in his constituency, and called for reforms that do not penalise those who comply with the law. While we are on the topic of Bedfordshire, will the Minister reflect on the lessons that have been learned from the Prosper case? What can be done to improve controls on the secondary market and the onward sale of guns?
Charlie Maynard
Lib Dem
Witney
Charlie Maynard expressed concern over the proposed changes to firearms licensing, noting that strict gun laws in the UK are a positive aspect of national security. He highlighted the need for understanding the impact of new checks and medical requirements introduced last August before considering further steps. Maynard advocated for the consolidation and digitalisation of the current fragmented system across 43 licensing authorities, emphasizing the importance of keeping rural communities informed and involved.
Daniel Zeichner
Lab
Cambridge
He paid tribute to Christopher Graffius of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation, noting his kindness and passion for the countryside. He hoped that others would agree on these points.
Dave Doogan
SNP
Angus and Perthshire Glens
Corrected the record that the SNP is participating in the debate. Highlighted that Angus and Perthshire Glens has the highest response rate with 550 opponents of the Government's proposal. Argued against the vast increase in bureaucratic burden without significant public safety benefits. Stressed the importance of understanding rural communities' way of life. Suggested strengthening firearms licensing units, standardizing processes, implementing electronic record keeping, and closing gaps in private shotgun sales.
David Smith
Lab
North Northumberland
David Smith expressed support for stringent gun control but highlighted the necessity of shotguns and rifles as tools for farmers. He called for an exemption for farmers from merged section 1 and 2 licences, noting that such impositions could harm agricultural productivity.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
He emphasised the importance of consulting the farming community, as shotguns are essential for farmers to control vermin. He highlighted that separate legislation has been in place since 1920.
Edward Morello
Lib Dem
West Dorset
He expressed a wish to give way but did not contribute additional content.
Greg Smith
Con
Mid Buckinghamshire
Mr. Smith highlighted the importance of shooting sports in his constituency, noting that around 477 constituents signed a petition regarding firearms licensing changes. He emphasized the economic impact on gun shops and shooting grounds and warned about potential job losses and revenue reductions if section 2 of the Firearms Act was merged with section 1. Citing statistics from the Countryside Alliance, he estimated that such a change could cost £1 billion annually and result in the loss of up to 20,000 jobs.
Jamie Stone
Lib Dem
Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross
He expressed support for his hon. Friend's opening of the debate and highlighted the difficulties crofters face with hooded crows in pecking out lambs' eyes, indicating the necessity for guns. The hon. Member offered an apology to Torcuil Crichton for any previous disagreements. Eating more game could boost the industry; proposing that pheasants be included on school menus as a cost-saving measure. This is suggested without advocating eating protected species like hooded crows. Mr. Stone responded to Mr. Moore's concerns about the benefits of the current firearms system in the UK, praising it for its stable teaching methods and safety standards that are the envy of the world.
Jerome Mayhew
Con
Broadland and Fakenham
He declared his interests as a firearm certificate holder, member of the Countryside Alliance, and representative of a rural community. He expressed confusion and anger among constituents over potential legislative changes regarding firearms licensing due to perceived lack of justification for safety concerns. He highlighted that only 0.00006% of crime is committed by legal holders of shotguns, with an average of 3.8 homicides per year over the last decade. The measures proposed could lead to a significant economic hit of £1 billion and loss of jobs in rural areas. Jerome Mayhew made a brief intervention, stating 'Speak for yourself.'
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Jim Shannon, a member of the BASC and Countryside Alliance Ireland, argued that merging sections 1 and 2 would harm public safety and reduce economic, employment, environmental, and social benefits for farmers, land managers, pest controllers, farmers, and gamekeepers. In Northern Ireland, strict medical controls are already in place and work effectively. The minister is invited to consider the approach taken in Northern Ireland when summarising.
John Cooper
Con
Dumfries and Galloway
Mr. Cooper highlighted the significant impact of shooting on his constituency's economy, noting that there are approximately 68,000 active participants in shooting activities across Scotland with a total economic activity of around £760 million. He stressed that shooting is not just about toffs and people helicoptering in to shoot grouse but mostly locals who enjoy rough shooting and contribute significantly to tourism. He also mentioned that the proposed changes would reduce the number of shotgun owners dramatically, which could lead to local businesses closing down and impact job creation.
John Lamont
Con
Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
Acknowledges the concerns raised in rural communities about merging sections 1 and 2 firearms licensing. Mentions that this would impact £3.3 billion worth of economic activity and 67,000 jobs. Suggests mandatory medical markers to improve public safety while addressing legitimate firearm usage.
John Milne
Lib Dem
Horsham
Concerned about the proposed merger of section 2 shotgun licensing into section 1, which could impose additional bureaucratic barriers and financial burdens on rural communities. Emphasises that existing laws are rigorous and sufficient. Highlights potential economic impacts on the industry, including a possible reduction in licence holders by up to one-third.
Joy Morrissey
Con
Beaconsfield
A farmer in the hon. Member's constituency is worried that proposed legislation will put him out of business by impacting his family-run farm shoot operation, which keeps his farm viable. She questioned whether the current proposal is the right way forward.
Julie Minns
Lab
Carlisle
She expressed concern about the merging of shotgun and rifle licensing regimes, arguing that it was not evidence-based or proportionate. She highlighted recommendations from a coroner's report on improving firearms licensing processes but noted these did not advocate for regime merger. Concerns were raised over potential administrative delays and costs, impacting rural communities and businesses reliant on seasonal shooting activities. On the speed of licensing, I can recommend none more strongly than the example of Cumbria constabulary. Since David Allen became the police, fire and crime commissioner for Cumbria, the constabulary has really put its house in order over the last 18 months.
Kit Malthouse
Con
North West Hampshire
Reflects on the possibility that merging sections 1 and 2 might increase overall lethality by encouraging current shotgun owners to acquire rifles instead. Emphasises the impact of increased administrative burdens on police forces. He agreed with the previous speaker's point about administrative burdens and added concerns about proposed restrictions on ammunition ownership. He estimated that 250 million cartridges are sold annually in the UK, suggesting significant additional costs for tracking and auditing these sales. Mr Kit Malthouse suggested that if the Government were truly interested in reducing firearm-related harm, they should focus police efforts on enforcing stricter controls on smuggled handguns and converted antiques rather than merging licences. He argued that this would have a greater impact on overall firearm crime.
Leigh Ingham
Lab
Stafford
He indicated a desire to give way but did not provide further content. Refers to constituent concerns about delays and inconsistency in firearms licensing applications. Suggests that improving consistency and efficiency across departments would be vital for public safety, regardless of the consultation outcomes.
Lizzi Collinge
Lab
Morecambe and Lunesdale
The MP discussed the current shotgun licensing process, highlighting its simplicity compared to rifle licensing. She acknowledged the importance of public safety while considering potential changes to align the licensing regimes for shotguns and rifles. The speaker also addressed concerns about increased bureaucracy and the need for evidence-led decisions to enhance safety without unnecessary burdens. Ms. Collinge questioned whether there have been instances where firearms obtained lawfully by individuals without a criminal record were used to cause harm, particularly self-harm or harming someone close.
Manuela Perteghella
Lib Dem
Stratford-on-Avon
Rural police forces already handle the highest concentration of firearms licensing work in the country. Merging sections 1 and 2 will increase administrative burdens, lengthen waiting times for law-abiding applicants, and divert more police time from illegal firearms and serious organised crime.
Mark Garnier
Con
Wyre Forest
He noted his role as chairman of the British Shooting Sports Council and suggested that medical markers on doctors' records could address mental health issues, rather than implementing the petition's proposals.
Matt Vickers
Con
Stockton West
Matt Vickers highlighted the importance of ensuring that any changes to firearms legislation are proportionate, evidence-led and effective. He cited data showing that licensed firearms account for a very small proportion of firearm-related crimes and emphasised the need for robust enforcement against illegal firearms rather than additional burdens on lawful owners. Vickers also expressed concern about the potential economic impact and accessibility issues in rural communities if section 1 and section 2 licensing were merged, citing potential losses of £875 million in gross value added by the shooting sector.
Olly Glover
Lib Dem
Didcot and Wantage
Olly Glover asked David Smith if he agreed with the hon. Member for South Shropshire that problems in implementing current gun check regimes, highlighted by murders in Plymouth in August 2021, should be key considerations.
Robbie Moore
Con
Keighley and Ilkley
He pointed out that the Law Commission's 2015 report did not recommend moving section 2 licences into the section 1 system, despite previous incidents. He referenced specific recommendations made to the Government. Mr. Moore expressed concern over the Government's aspiration to merge section 1 and section 2 licences under the Firearms Act 1968, arguing that there is no evidence it would improve public safety. He highlighted data showing an average of only 3.8 deaths per year from legally held firearms in contrast to 280 annual deaths from knives. Moore questioned why this consultation was being brought forward despite lack of community or industry request and the coroner's report not recommending the merge. He also pointed out inefficiencies in firearms licensing processes, with a quarter of authorities taking over a year to process grant applications. Additionally, he warned of potential negative impacts on the £3.3 billion UK shooting economy if the Government proceeds with their agenda. I am interested to understand why this consultation is before the public, as it goes against the grain of the Law Commission's 2015 report and the coroner's report. In 2023, there were 35 deaths associated with firework usage.
Rupert Lowe
Ind
Great Yarmouth
Mr Rupert Lowe argued against merging firearms licences, stating it would create more delays and bureaucracy for responsible gun owners. He highlighted that these individuals are among the most law-abiding in Britain and undergo strict background checks. He emphasised the importance of keeping section 1 and section 2 licensing separate to provide proper oversight while allowing legitimate ownership.
Sarah Dyke
Lib Dem
Glastonbury and Somerton
Sarah Dyke expressed concern over the proposed merger of section 2 and section 1 firearms licences, arguing that it is unnecessary given current evidence. She highlighted economic impacts on rural areas and concerns raised by stakeholders including gun dealers, farmers, and enactors. Dyke pointed out that the current system is already one of the most robust in the world with an average homicide rate using legally held firearms at one per 15 million people. Additionally, she questioned the evidence supporting the idea that individuals owning more than one firearm are more likely to commit crimes. The speaker also mentioned the lack of training given to licensing authority officers and stressed the need for clarity on when a consultation will be forthcoming.
Stuart Anderson
Con
South Shropshire
Stuart Anderson highlighted the importance of firearm licensing in South Shropshire, noting that it contributes significantly to the rural economy. He expressed concerns over the proposed merging of section 1 and section 2 licences, arguing it would impose an excessive administrative burden on police forces and threaten jobs and conservation efforts. He cited statistics showing around 170,000 section 1 firearm licences compared to more than half a million section 2 shotgun licence holders. Highlights delays experienced by constituents in renewing firearms licences with West Mercia Police Force, which takes approximately 12 months. Emphasises the need for timely renewal to avoid legal gaps that could affect livelihoods. I hope that the last three hours have been an informed debate that will help the Minister shape a way forward. If the two licences merge, additional resources for the police will be needed at huge cost. Will the Minister seriously look at putting that money into stopping illegal weapons on the streets?
Torcuil Crichton
Lab
Na h-Eileanan an Iar
The hon. Member raised conservation concerns in his constituency, noting that greylag geese are overpopulating and causing significant damage to crofting crops and grasslands. He highlighted the importance of local marksmen who hold gun licences for culling these geese, but expressed worry about difficulties in obtaining such licences recently, which could lead to a loss of skills among the shooters.
Government Response
Sarah Jones
Government Response
Emphasized the need for balance between safety, economic benefits (£9.3 billion), and responsibilities; acknowledged the gravity of granting licences due to potential misuse; highlighted ongoing consultations and potential reforms like centralised licensing as part of police reform initiatives; noted plans for standardising training and reducing inconsistencies in licensing processes across different forces.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.