BASC meets with Dorset PCC on firearms licensing

BASC met with senior police staff at Dorset Police recently to discuss firearms licensing following the force’s decision to suspend its collaboration agreement with Devon and Cornwall Police.

BASC’s South West regional director David Gervers and head of firearms Martin Parker met with Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick, Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne and Detective Superintendent Paul Kessell, who will be responsible for running the new department.

The decision by Dorset Police to separate their firearms licensing authority from Devon and Cornwall Police was as a result of a survey undertaken last year, in partnership with BASC, of certificate holders in the county.

The move will ensure the force has total control of the licensing process, providing a better service to certificate holders.

Following the meeting, Martin Parker, said, “What was clear is that whilst public safety must be the primary concern, Dorset Police are committed to delivering good customer service in the future. In this context, BASC will assist the force in any way possible to help them to achieve their goals. As ever, an open dialogue between police and the shooting community is critical for a working and efficient service.”

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