Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones responds to recent strengthened controls to protect the public from medically unfit gun holders

“Here in Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary we have had GP checks (before issuing gun licensees) for a few years. I’m pleased that we have helped shape and improve the national policy just announced.

“This will ensure the medical history of those applying for gun licenses are reviewed before being issued, and this extra measure will ensure gun license holders are monitored throughout their license period which will help prevent tragedies like those in Plymouth.

“There is a backlog of gun license renewals and new applications across the county, which were caused due to COVID. Police forces need to prioritise clearing these backlogs in a timely manner to support those that need a gun license in order to do their jobs.”