Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioners, Peter McCall is inviting the public to complete the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners national survey and have their say on potential changes to the licensing of firearms and shotguns in England and Wales.

Talking about the firearms licensing survey, Peter McCall comments: “The Home Office is currently reviewing arrangements for the licensing of guns and will shortly be introducing new statutory guidance to be followed by all police forces.

“As Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, one of my key roles is to be the public’s voice in policing and we want to hear your thoughts on the licensing of firearms, so we can feed the views of Cumbria back to the Home Office.

“The APCC’s short survey asks for the public’s views on things like the amount of scrutiny of medical records and social media posts that police should undertake when granting or renewing a license; and whether or not an applicant should pay the full costs of having their request processed.

“We want to hear all from sides including people who are, or have previously been, a registered firearms licence or shotgun certificate holder.

“The public may be surprised to hear that there are more than half a million licence holders in England and Wales, who legally own nearly 2million firearms. We know the overwhelming majority do so safely and responsibly.

“So, while it is absolutely right that we have a discussion on licensing, we should be careful to ensure any changes to guidance or legislation are proportionate, reflect the public’s views, and above all are effective at keeping people safe.”

The survey, which can be completed online, takes just a few minutes and will remain open for responses until Wednesday 20 October.