By Local firearm statistics released following Plymouth shooting
After the shocking and horrific mass shooting that took place in Plymouth on August 12, the UK government has released a breakdown on firearm statistics.
According to figures that date up to 31 March 2020, there were 159,483 firearm certificates on issue, with a further 567,358 shotgun certificates on issue. This number has changed very little over the past ten years.
Out of 7,962 new applications for firearm licences, 97% were approved.
The government statistics also provide a break down of local figures, the following numbers show the amount of firearms holders per 100,000 people:
- Humberside: 1,156-1,732
- Lincolnshire:1,733-2,310
- South Yorkshire: 578-1,155
- Nottinghamshire: 578-1,155
In the same period 371 firearms certificates were revoked, a decrease of 1% (-5) compared with the previous year as well as 1,141 shotgun certificates being revoked – an increase of 2%.
A firearm or shotgun certificate is a type of licence, issued by the police, which allows the
holder to possess firearms or shotguns and associated ammunition in Great Britain. Firearm
and shotgun certificates are valid for 5 years.
To obtain a licence the applicant must prove that: they have a good reason for owning a firearm, they can be trusted with a firearm and that they will not be a danger to the public.
Of the 586,351 certificate holders: 94% (550,298) were male, 70% (407,872) were aged 18 to 64, 0.5% (2,770) were aged 17 years and under.
The youngest shotgun certificate holder as of 31 March 2020 was aged 7.
Firearm and shotgun certificates can be revoked by the chief officer of police if they have reason to believe that the holder:
- can no longer be entrusted with firearms in accordance with the Firearms Act 1968, is of unsound mind or is otherwise unfit
- is considered a danger to the public safety or to the peace
- no longer has a good reason for having in their possession.
A further breakdown of statistics can be found here.
