Telford MP to back tough action over firearms licenses

Over the summer the Government rejected a Labour amendment to the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Bill which would have allowed police to refuse gun licenses for people with a history of domestic violence. The amendment would also mean people with a history of violent conduct, drug and alcohol abuse were also unable to receive a gun license. However, the issue will return to Parliament in September and Mr Wright intends to vote for this proposal to help stop violence against women.

In England and Wales 1 in 3 women killed by their partner is shot with a legally-owned weapon - 64% of these murders involve shotguns. In the last 12 months 75% of the female gun deaths occurred in domestic incidents. In 2009 the figure was 100%.

Telford MP David Wright said:

"When two women a week are killed by a husband, partner or ex and in some areas, one in five 999 calls to the police each week are for domestic violence, it is simply shocking that the Government has so far refused to support the idea that in general people with a history of domestic violence should be refused a firearms license.

“Gun licenses should only be awarded to people that the police have the very highest confidence in, and a history of domestic violence should be a clear marker that someone is unsuitable for gun ownership. Members of the public will be shocked that the government is refusing to do more to stop violence against women, and is happy to let violent and abusive individuals have access to dangerous weapons. The Home Secretary urgently needs to address this with her colleagues.

“Campaigners and families of victims that have been killed by guns have been clear that a change in the law is needed and Labour tried to work with the government to tighten the law to stop senseless attacks and violence in the future. It is extremely disappointing that the government voted against these measures, but we will be doing more to push for a much needed change."