Section 21 Firearms Act 1968: Statement for Probationary Members of Reeds Target Shooting Club

Section 21 Firearms Act 1968: Statement for Probationary Members of Reeds Target Shooting Club

 

As a probationary member of Reeds Target Shooting Club, you must understand and comply with the legal restrictions set out under Section 21 of the Firearms Act 1968. This section outlines who is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to criminal convictions and custodial sentences.

1. Prohibited Persons Under Section 21

Section 21 makes it a criminal offence for certain individuals to possess, handle, or have access to firearms or ammunition. These prohibitions apply as follows:

  • If you have been sentenced to more than 3 years in prison for any criminal offence, you are prohibited for life from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
  • If you have been sentenced to between 3 months and 3 years in prison, you are prohibited for 5 years from the date of your release.
  • If you have been sentenced to less than 3 months in prison, Section 21 does not apply, but your suitability to possess firearms may still be assessed under other legal and licensing criteria.

These restrictions apply regardless of the nature of the offence or whether the conviction is considered "spent."

2. Your Obligation to Disclose

As a probationary member, it is your responsibility to inform the club immediately and in confidence if you are subject to any of these prohibitions. Failure to do so is a serious matter and may be reported to the police and firearms licensing authorities.

3. Club Responsibilities

Reeds Target Shooting Club is legally obligated to ensure that no prohibited person under Section 21 has access to firearms or ammunition. Any suspected or confirmed breach of this law will be reported to the appropriate authorities without exception.

4. Legal Consequences

Possession of a firearm or ammunition by a person prohibited under Section 21 is a criminal offence, carrying penalties of up to 5 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine. The club also reserves the right to terminate the membership of any individual found to be in breach of this legislation.

5. Declaration of Understanding

By participating in club activities as a probationary member, you confirm that:

  • You are not prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under Section 21 of the Firearms Act 1968, and
  • You understand your legal obligations to remain compliant with this legislation at all times.

If you are unsure whether Section 21 applies to you, you must seek advice from the police firearms licensing department or legal counsel before handling any firearms or ammunition.

 

You can use this link to read section 21 of the 1968 Firearms Act.