Applicants being let down and delayed by unhelpful GPs during the firearms licensing process can make use of a new, dedicated BASC service to ensure a speedy resolution.
The service launched today (6th January) links applicants with GPs to help secure medical verification. It will assist those applicants who are either unhappy with being charged exorbitant fees by their own GP or those facing delays because their GP is refusing to take part in the process.
Bill Harriman, BASC’s director of firearms, said: “More than a dozen police forces are now ignoring Home Office guidance and enforcing GP involvement, with even more looking to move in that direction.
“The shooting community is being caught in a catch-22 position, with the GP holding the applicant to ransom and the police not progressing the application. The system is on its knees.
“BASC’s new service provides a valuable stop-gap for our members until a complete solution can be sought.
“BASC will continue to work towards ensuring a political solution whereby GPs are legally obliged to participate in the licensing system.”
BASC is advising members who are struggling to secure GP assistance to contact the association’s dedicated firearms team on 01244 573010 so that they can be put in touch with a co-operative doctor.
Medical involvement in firearms licensing
A number of police forces in England and Wales have breached Home Office guidance by imposing mandatory GP screening for all applications for shotgun, firearm and explosives certificates.
