Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez
An extensive review and a public survey informed the decision by Police and Crime Commissioners and Chief Constables to separate the Alliance Firearms, Explosives and Licensing Unit (FELU) into a unit for each force area.
The unit, formed in March 2015 from licensing departments in each force, has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including the Covid-19 pandemic, changes to statutory guidance and the tragic shooting in Keyham, Plymouth. These have resulted in delays to the issuing of some firearms licences and shotgun certificates.
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “I would like to thank all those who took the time to give us their views via the survey.
“It gave us a clear indication there was a desire for dedicated firearms licensing units for each force. That allowed me to make a strong representation from the community and align with operational advantages that will drive a better service.”
Work continues to clear overdue licence and certificate renewals and grants.