The main function of the Firearms Licensing Team is to make sure
that all firearms certificate holders are suitable to keep weapons.
When someone applies for a firearms certificate, a number of checks
are carried out by firearms licensing officers. This includes
medical checks and criminal records checks.
Enquiry officers then visit the applicant at home to make sure
they are happy with the situation and ensure that the gun will be
stored securely. If the applicant passes all of the checks and the
visit successfully then the application will be approved.
If there is a medical problem, then the officers will consult
with the applicant’s GP, and independent medical advice may be
sought. Further investigations will be conducted if more
information is needed to make a decision.
If someone is accused of a violent offence, is arrested or
convicted, then the situation is reviewed to see if they present a
threat.
The Firearms Licensing team monitor all certificate holders, and
if a certificate holder is arrested for any criminal offence there
are procedures in force to consider whether or not the certificate
should be revoked, this includes liasing with other agencies.