Gun crime in the UK
The factsThe Home Office states that contrary to public perception gun crime in the UK is low – less than 0.5% of all crime recorded by the police. (Source: Home Office website).
However, "the number of overall offences involving firearms has been increasing each year since 1997/98. And crime involving imitation weapons was up 55% in 2004-05 compared to the previous year." (Source: Crime in England and Wales 2004/2005).
Gun laws
People found guilty of possessing a prohibited firearm illegally are looking at a minimum prison sentence of five years.
You have to be at least 17 years old before you can buy an air rifle.
Concerned about gun crime?
Visit the CrimeStoppers website at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/ for advice.
You can call them anonymously with information on 0800 555 111.
Related links
FourDocs: Short Sharp Shock
An unconventional, emotive documentary addressing the rise of gun culture in Britain.
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