Gun crime ‘middle men’ targeted by government

Home Secretary Theresa May is expected to outline the plans in a package of measures designed to crack down on the middle men who import the guns which are said to be fuelling youth violence.

The move follows concerns that the same guns are being traded between gangs and used in a series of different attacks.

The home secretary is considering bringing in a new offence of possession of an illegal firearm with intent to supply, with a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Police chiefs have previously called for such a move, saying there was a small number of firearms in circulation that are used on a frequent basis.

Sentences ‘not appropriate’

In evidence to MPs last year, the Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo) said: “These uses are often by individuals and groups that are unconnected, suggesting the role of ‘middle men’ who supply firearms to others either by sale, loan or lease.”

Acpo told the Commons home affairs select committee the new law was needed because “the offence of straight possession for these ‘middle men’ is not appropriate for the seriousness of the offence.

“In order to achieve an appropriate offence and sentence the only current option would be a charge of possession with intent to endanger life; this is often extremely difficult to prove and offers little to investigators where intent to endanger life is not an obvious factor in the case,” the police chiefs said.

The proposals could also see anyone convicted of illegally importing weapons face up to 14 years in prison, instead of the current 10 years.

Ministers are also expected to encourage local agencies to take every chance to help young people stay away from gangs and violence, coupled with tough punishments for those who refuse to accept help.