West Mercia Police has revised their plans to introduce an online-only application system for new firearms and shotgun licences, planned to begin on 1 May 2024. The original shift was aimed at modernising the licensing process by transitioning exclusively to digital submissions, expected to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. However, this move prompted a significant backlash from the shooting community, leading to an essential revision of the policy.
Concerns were initially voiced by key figures and organisations within the gun industry, including the Gun Trade Association (GTA) and the British Association for Shooting & Conservation (BASC). They argued that the removal of paper applications could disregard shooters who lack access to digital resources, effectively marginalising a portion of the community.
Responding to these concerns, West Mercia Police revised their approach. In an updated statement, they acknowledged the need to maintain accessibility for all applicants. “While we are moving towards encouraging online submissions to streamline the application process and ensure compliance with statutory guidelines, we recognise the importance of accessibility. For those experiencing difficulties with the online process, manual submissions will still be accommodated,” the statement explained.
“We all support measures to help make the firearms licensing system more efficient – and digital online systems are a key part of that,” says Simon West OBE, executive director, The Gun Trade Association.
“The recent experience in West Mercia revealed two issues – first, the obvious discrimination against those who don’t have easy access to computers – and secondly, a force independently introducing its own ‘good idea’, contrary to what the law requires.
In our highly regulated firearms licensing world, there are systems that need to be followed. They start with what is written in the various Acts and The Firearms Rules. Home Office guidance then sets out with more detail, how those should be applied. Consistent application of the law is what is required. It is not up to individual forces to introduce new systems, new ideas and new forms to match their good ideas.
“The GTA is part of the British Shooting Sports Council that provides the national stakeholder representation with government, its departments and the police. When changes to the system are proposed by any organisation, they receive proper, informed scrutiny and if considered appropriate, are brought into law. Good ideas – yes please – but let’s work together using the proper channels!”
The initial decision by West Mercia Police followed feedback indicating that the paper-based system was perceived as slow and outdated by many licence holders. The new online system aims to address these issues by reducing the high rate of application errors that result in 80 per cent of paper submissions being returned. Despite these intentions, the force has conceded that the shift to digital cannot completely replace traditional methods due to
accessibility concerns.
For applicants without internet access, the police recommend using public facilities such as local libraries, which are equipped with computers and Wi-Fi.
Despite the digital push, West Mercia Police reassured the community that they would continue to issue physical, watermarked certificates. The application process involving GP forms remains unchanged, with applicants required to download, complete, and upload these forms as part of their online submission.
West Mercia Police say that they are committed to ensuring a smooth transition and continue to collaborate with stakeholders from the shooting community to address any further concerns. This change is part of a broader effort by the police force to improve operational efficiency while ensuring that new systems enhance, rather than hinder, community access and safety.
Gun Trade Insider spoke with many industry professionals before the revision, with all views strongly opposing the initial decision.
One trade member described the proposal as “absolutely disgusting,” arguing that the police are meant to uphold the law, not redefine it without legal basis, and suggested legal action against the chief constable. Another, approaching 75, highlighted the impracticality for older or rural residents, explaining his own inability to submit applications online due to a lack of equipment and skills, with many in his community likely to face similar challenges. A further suggestion came from another trade member that, while digital applications could be an option, paper applications should still be accepted and processed directly at local police stations to ensure accessibility and timeliness. Another respondent accused West Mercia Police of overstepping legal boundaries with the proposal, calling it unlawful and expressing hope that it would be challenged in court at the earliest opportunity.
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