Home Office responds to Horden campaign

The guidance, which was published in response to the Horden shootings campaign for tighter gun laws, states:

• When police receive information about an applicant having a history of domestic violence, they should consider interviewing their family, friends and associates
• Speaking to the applicant’s partner, who might be a victim of abuse, may be judged to be “essential”

• The information the partner gives must be treated confidentially and police would need to take steps to make sure they are safe
• The partner would not have to approve an application for a firearms certificate

The Minister Policing called domestic violence 'unacceptable in any society' and added that people should be in no doubt that chance of then holding a firearms certificate is diminished. It comes as the Home Office publishes new guidelines for firearms in response to the Horden shootings campaign.

Bobby Turnbull, who lost three family members in a shooting in Horde, County Durham, has had a response to his campaign for tighter gun control.

Bobby's mother, sister and aunt were shot dead last year, and he has been to London to lobby politicians.

The Home Office has released guidance that says people with a history of domestic violence should notbe allowed to possess a firearm or shotgun. The publication also says every incident shouldprompt a police review.

The new guidance will form part of the Firearms Guide. Police will use it when they are deciding whether to grant a certificate.