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UPDATE: Application to renew a firearm and/ or shotgun certificate, or registration as a firearms dealer (RFD)

In June we advised that in discussion with Londonwide LMCs, the Metropolitan Police produced guidance for GPs to refer to when approached for a factual medical report by a patient applying for the grant of one of the above mentioned certificates. The revised process for granting licenses has been effective since 5 July 2021.

In light of recent events, the new process will also be applicable for license renewals for licenses expiring on or after 27 September 2021.

The Metropolitan Police are contacting people who have submitted renewal applications to advise them of the change. The template they will be provided is identical to the grant one with the only change being in the covering letter indicating what type of application it relates to.

The Metropolitan Police were very mindful of the challenges that are currently faced by GPs, together with the concerns about the risks associated with the provision of such reports – with this in mind, the new approach is helpful for the following reasons:

• It makes it clear that the final licensing decision remains solely with the Firearms Licensing Manager.
• It provides a proforma which sets out the information that GPs are required to provide (with the option to provide any additional information the GP may find relevant).
• The proforma is easy to complete and return.
• It provides the relevant codes that should be used (with reference to the commonly used IT systems).

The paperwork makes clear that this is non–contractual work and any fees attracted by this report are a matter between the patient and the practice.

The Metropolitan Police guidance for GPs can be seen here.

An example of the report template can be downloaded here.

Last updated : 09 Sep 2021

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