The government has announced firearms licensing fees will increase for the first time since 2015.
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion has welcomed the move and the government’s decision to ensure police forces retain the fees to support improvements in firearms licensing, a U-turn on its original position.
With the second highest number of shotgun and firearms holders in the country, legal firearms are part of the way of life for many in rural communities across West Mercia.
Hearing and acting on concerns raised by those communities, the PCC has continued to shine a light on the experiences of residents facing delays by scrutinising the performance of the Firearms Licensing Unit and providing significant resources to deliver change.
PCC John Campion 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.”