Two Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) in England have committed to enhancing the firearms licensing process in partnership with the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC). Martin Parker, BASC’s head of firearms, recently met with Jonathan Evison, re-elected PCC for Humberside, and Dan Price, the newly elected PCC for Cheshire, to discuss targeted improvements.
Both PCCs have agreed to set up independent advisory groups specifically for firearms licensing and to undertake strategic demand assessments within their respective forces. They will also focus on training initiatives for licensing department staff, with BASC set to provide support for training within the rural crime units of both Humberside Police and Cheshire Constabulary.
In Humberside, discussions with senior police officers acknowledged that licensing turnaround times were on the upswing. Parker highlighted a “clear commitment” from the force to collaborate with BASC, describing their relationship as one of working with a “critical friend”.
Meanwhile, in Cheshire, PCC Dan Price, who comes from an urban background, expressed a keen interest in understanding the role of shooting sports in rural communities. He looks forward to engaging with BASC members locally to gain deeper insights. Price’s proactive engagement with BASC prior to his election highlights the importance of ongoing dialogue with elected officials on community-specific issues.