CONTROL OF FIREARMS.

Taranaki Daily News, 25 November 1920, Page 4

CONTROL OF FIREARMS.

The regulations which have been issued under the Arms Act, and intended to control the use of firearms by the public should be welcomed by all lawabiding citizens. The need for this control has constantly been evident in the past, and particular emphasis is provided by the .terrible use to which these weapons are being put in Ireland at the present time. The danger arising from a certain class of persons carrying loaded revolvers or having them handy for use is one that the Government has wisely determined to stop, and if the new regulations are thoroughly carried out they should certainly attain the desired result, provided penalties sufficiently severe are imposed on offenders. The recent tragedy at Carterton is a case in point. Quarrels will happen, but the absence of firearms greatly reduces the possibility of a fatal termination. Probably the great majority of the public can be trusted with the possession of guns or revolvers without any fear of the consequences, but laws are not made against normal citizens; rather for their protection, and there is no question that the safety of the community will be furthered by the repression of the practice of carrying and using firearms. The regulations appear to be sufficiently thorough to achieve the desired end. Those who already possess firearms of any description will have to register the fact with the police, besides being obliged ■to notify any change of address, thus they have a responsibility, which is increased by the necessity for obtaining permission to carry a weapon beyond the home, besides which they have to be vouched for by a recommendation from some other person. It is, however, in the control of the importation, sale, and manufacture of firearms that the regulations are likely to be of the greatest service, for a complete chain of evidence is furnished as to the hands into which firearms fall. A license is required U import either arms, ammunition or explosives, also for permission to purchase same, and it is obligatory on the part of the seller to record on the back of the permit (which lias to be returned to the police) the particulars relating to the purchase. Areas may be fixed by the Government within which the possession of firearms, ammunition and explosives will be unlawful, except under license by the police, power being given to revoke any such license at any time. This provision would meet the case of any disturbance, industrial or otherwise, arising and likely to be a menace to- law and order. It is at times of excitement, either on the part of individuals or sections o£ Uib <..™nmii.iitv. that ftraAjMJU **».(«£.

ticularly dangerous, and no regulations for preventing the use of weapons or explosives can be too drastic. It may confidently be expected that the public will accept these regulations in the right spirit, and though it is somewhat of a blot on civilisation that it sliould be necessary to legislate in this direction, yet, unfortunately, there exists in every community an element of abnormal and irresponsible people who are liable to be a menace tp their fellows at any time, so that precautions nave to be taken to minimise as far ( as possible their opportunities for taking human life. It is to be hoped the authorities will exhibit tact and thoroughness in carrying out the regulations, and that mistaken leniency will not be shown to ■offenders.