My firearms certificates were renewed recently!

The spouses opinion does not form part of the application or renewal process.

By David Frost

Monday, 09 January 2012

My certificates were renewed recently and as part of the renewal process my wife was asked if she had any objection to me having firearms.

I've not heard of this before. Is it something new?

SHOTGUN LICENCE RENEWAL
David Frost
There has been some debate in recent months about whether current and recent partners should be asked about an applicant's suitability to have a firearm or shotgun certificate.

The issue is fraught with difficulties.

What if a partner says no and is subsequently abused by an unsuccessful applicant?

Is there a risk of a previous partner giving the thumbs down through spite?

Apparently a system like this is used in Canada and the government has agreed to study the results to see if lessons can be learned for the UK.

In the meantime it does not form part of the application or renewal process in this country.

Any partner who is asked this question should tell the FEO not to be so impertinent.