Alarm over UK ‘ghost gun’ legal guidelines after insurance coverage boss capturing with 3D weapon
Lax laws around 3D printed guns mean police risk losing control over firearms in the UK, ministers have been warned.
Calls have been mounted for a clampdown on software and online manuals used to make the deadly weapons after a former Met Police chief sounded the alarm. Lord Bernard Hogan-Howe, former commissioner of the capital’s police force, said there had been a “fair few instances” of so-called ghost guns being made in this country.
It follows the murder of health insurance tycoon Brian Thompson in New York with what investigators believe was a 3D-printed weapon. Lord Hogan-Howe warned that failing to act now would be disastrous.
Home Office minister Lord David Hanson hinted that new laws could be introduced in the coming months to tighten controls on these firearms. The former Met chief said: “If we lose this control point, which the 3D printers allow, then we’re going to be in a serious situation.”
He questioned whether the Government should outlaw software that allows 3D weapons to be created. Lord Hogan-Howe added that new devices are able to produce metallic guns, rather than just plastic-based ones, which means they are “more than one use”.
Labour peer Lord Harris warned that “detailed manuals” are easily available online. He added that 3D-printed guns, which are bought as components and converted into functional guns, are the “weapon of choice” for criminals in Australia and New Zealand.
Lord Hanson said that while no “viable” fully 3D-printed firearms have been found by UK police, there were 25 cases last year where officers seized component parts or other items associated with 3D gun printing. He said ministers are reviewing existing laws.
“We’ll make sure that if there are loopholes we tie up those loopholes,” Lord Hanson stated. He said: “A 3D printed firearm is captured by existing firearms legislation.
“And if a 3D printed firearm is made, it is treated in exactly the same way as with any other type of firearm that is illegal. So it is covered by the legislation.
“But the suggestions that he (Lord Hogan-Howe) made are worthy of consideration. We keep those matters under review.”
In the New Year a new policing Bill will be put before MPs. Lord Hanson suggested that legislation on 3D printed firearms could be included in that.
He said: “There are opportunities in this session of Parliament to look at those issues as a potential Police and Crime Bill goes through this House.” Assistant Chief Constable Tim Metcalfe, who leads firearms work at the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) told The Mirror : “The NPCC are working closely with the National Crime Agency to address the threat posed by firearms of all types and have seen a sustained reduction in firearms discharges over the last two years.
“As part of this activity we are working together with the public and industry partners to ensure the risks posed by 3D printed firearms and converted blank firing weapons are managed effectively to reduce the threat to communities.”
