I am aware of a BASC campaign ahead of the PCC elections in May. The details of the campaign are here https://basc.org.uk/pcc-elections-make-a-difference-to-the-future-of-fi…
I am very proud to work with BASC over my time as PCC. My response to the email template generated can be found below.
As the PCC in West Mercia, I can reassure you that I have consistently prioritised over the past 8 years the commissioning of an efficient and effective system of firearms licencing in a part of the country that has a high number of licenced firearms holders. You will also be aware that over that period there has been significant changes to the way firearms are licensed.
As PCC, I have continued to shine a light on the experiences of communities facing delays, scrutinise the performance of the Firearms Licensing Unit and taken action by providing significant resources to deliver change.
To ensure progress is made without compromising public safety, I invested £460,000 of additional funding into the unit. To maximise the benefits of this investment, I have supported West Mercia Police’s plans to carry out a range of operational changes:
- More than doubling the number of Firearms Enquiry Officers, who carry out important enquiries and background checks, nine additional officers have already been recruited. New positions have also been created to ensure greater oversight of cases to speed up the process.
- Changes will also see the rollout of bespoke training for new roles within the department, ensuring recruits are best equipped to understand the latest statutory guidance and systems.
I hear regularly from residents and local MPs about the firearms licensing delays that many in our shooting communities are experiencing. I am listening and remain committed to ensuring the additional investment I have made available to the force is speeding-up the process while maintaining a focus on public safety.
I welcome the changes being introduced and will use all the powers available to me to support and challenge the Chief Constable on delivering the promised progress.
I have consistently held the Chief Constable to account for the performance of licencing of firearms – details of which can be found on my official website (www.westmercia-pcc.gov.uk).
I trust the above is reassuring to you and BASC members, and my commitment to ensure West Mercia Police has a safe and timely system of licencing firearms in West Mercia.
Kind regards
John Campion
The Conservative Candidate for
West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner
Keep up to date with John's campaign via
Facebook: Facebook.com/Campion4WestMercia
Website: www.Campion4WestMercia.com
Twitter: @johnpaulcampion
Promoted by M Bayliss on behalf of JP Campion, both of 28 Bewdley Road North, Stourport on Severn, Worcs DY13 8PS
