The UKPSA have issued the following press release in response to the Prosper case.

PRESS RELEASE 24th March 2025

Every life lost is a tragedy and no one within the shooting community or beyond underestimates the pain and loss caused by the illegal use of firearms that results in death or injury. The UKPSA extends its sympathy and condolences to all those touched by this tragedy. The goal should always be to prevent harm wherever possible.

Criminals by their very nature are willing to break the law. That is self-evident from the fact that those firearms which are banned in Great Britain, pistols, are still the most commonly used in crime. Sadly tragedies like this deflect from the reality that law abiding sportsmen and sportswomen use firearms responsibly and have nothing in common with criminals.

The UKPSA works with the British Shooting Sports Council for a licensing system that protects public safety and has consistently advocated for a more efficient and effective process. It is not in the interests of those who shoot legally for the wrong people to have access to firearms.

It is important that the facts are known and understood, and that no solution is decided upon as a knee jerk reaction to this tragic event. The UKPSA would urge ministers to examine the failings of the existing system that has 43 different licensing authorities, all with differing interpretations of the law and guidance. We fully support the National Crime agency’s recent campaign to combat the faking of firearms certificates. We remain committed to collaborating with the Home Office and Law enforcement agencies to ensure the system is robust and effective, and that firearms are possessed only by those who meet the rigorous standards set by law.

END OF PRESS RELEASE