A Perthshire politician and chair of the Scottish Affairs Committee has launched a new inquiry to review firearms licensing in Scotland.
Perth and North Perthshire MSP Pete Wishart confirmed the move, motivated by the recent tragedy in August where a man was killed in a shooting on the Isle of Skye.
John MacKinnon (47) was killed after a firearm was discharged, with gunshots also being heard on the mainland at Dornie, Wester Ross.
The responsibility for gun control rests with the UK Government Home Office, while policing is a devolved matter.
As such, local police forces handle applications to own firearms or shotguns in Scotland.
Tighter gun controls were put in place following the 1996 mass shooting in Dunblane Primary School, which remains the deadliest mass shooting in British history.
In recent years this area has seen enhanced policy action, such as the publication of new statutory guidance on firearms licensing for police forces and Police Scotland calling for people to hand in unneeded and unlicensed firearms.
Police forces are legally required to take into account an individual’s medical history – including mental health – when assessing applications.
However, while organisations note that the UK has some of the strictest gun laws in the world, some stakeholders such as The British Association for Shooting and Conservation have called for firearms licensing to be made smoother and easier for applicants.
The committee plans to hold two evidence sessions as part of this inquiry. Further details will be announced in due course.
Commenting, Mr Wishart said: “Following the horrific shooting on the Isle of Skye, it is timely that our committee is looking into whether current regulations around the use of firearms are sufficient.
“While such events are incredibly rare, as a result of tight gun controls, it does not lessen the tragedy that the community has experienced.
“The responsible use of firearms is critical for agricultural communities.
“However, concern has been raised by some organisations that the firearms licensing service is plagued with delays in the processing of applications.”
The committee is inviting written submissions, to be received by October 13, on the adequacy of firearms licensing regulations in Scotland and the extent to which they are relevant to Scotland’s particular circumstances, including its agricultural communities.
