Police and Crime Commissioner welcomes Government increase in firearms licensing fees
West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) John Campion has welcomed an announcement that firearms licensing fees will increase for the first time since 2015.
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Mr Campion said the Government's decision will ensure police forces retain the fees to support improvements in firearms licensing.
Yesterday (January 15) it was announced that from February 5 the fee for a new firearms certificate rant will rise from £88 to £198, and the cost of renewing a certificate will rise from £62 to £131.
Fees for shotgun certificates and to register as a firearms dealer will also increase.
Mr Campion added that legal firearms are 'part of the way of life' for many living in rural communities across the West Mercia region, with the second highest number of shotgun and firearms holders in the country.
He said: "For too long West Mercia Police has processed firearms licenses at a loss, failing to deliver value for money for local taxpayers.
"I have been a loud and consistent voice for change, so I welcome the Government listening and acting on calls to ensure the cost to West Mercia Police is covered in full.
"After the significant investment I have already made in West Mercia, it’s also right that the fees will be retained by the force, boosting my efforts to cut the backlog and process licences quicker."
