Plymouth Tragedy: Gun Licence Reform Overdue

Lib Dem home affairs spokesman Lord Paddick says Home Secretary Priti Patel should forward new statutory guidance on shotgun and firearm licencing without delay.

He tweeted: "In 2015 @HMICFRS [Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services] said there were "fundamental gaps" in firearms licensing, there was a need for change & others [Home Office] needed to accept that: "What is highly likely is that, if change is not effected, there will be another tragedy.""

In 2015 @HMICFRS said there were "fundamental gaps" in firearms licensing, there was a need for change & others [Home Office] needed to accept that:

"What is highly likely is that, if change is not effected, there will be another tragedy."https://t.co/P3vwsFH8BO

- Brian Paddick 🏳️‍🌈🇬🇧👨‍❤️‍👨🇳🇴🏳️‍⚧️ (@brianpaddick) August 16, 2021

He further commented:

"As the horrifying, tragic events in Plymouth reminded us all, guns are lethal weapons that must be kept out of the wrong hands at all costs.

"Priti Patel's hapless hesitation on the new rules is shocking and shameful. It's almost six years since the Government was told it needed new guidance, and more than four years since Parliament legislated for it.

"It's time to get on with it."

"Priti Patel must stop ignoring expert advice on stronger gun control. Tougher guidance has been on her desk ever since she became Home Secretary in 2019. It is inexcusable that no progress has been made on her watch.

"Priti Patel should urgently announce the outcome of the Government's consultation, halt the delay in the Home Office and immediately bring in the statutory guidance."