There is a world of difference between lawful and legitimate firearms ownership and gun crime and to tie the two together is inappropriate (Thousands of people in Greater Manchester have access to guns, The Bolton News 12/11/19).

The number of legally-held guns used in crime is miniscule and statistically insignificant.

Firearms certificate holders are among the most law-abiding in the country.

They have to go through a rigorous application process in order to obtain their certificates.

Paul Dale

Head of Firearms,

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation