Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Police have confirmed that their joint firearms licensing department is facing significant delays, with renewals now taking around nine months and new grant applications taking a minimum of twelve months to process.
In a statement published on the forces’ websites, the department said that the introduction of new statutory guidance has increased the level of work required for each application, with additional checks and scrutiny contributing to longer turnaround times. Variations, transfers and updates are also affected.
The tri-force unit said it has expanded its licensing team and plans to introduce new technology over the coming months to help reduce delays. However, it has decided to prioritise renewals over new grants, advising certificate holders to submit renewal applications 20–24 weeks before expiry and ensure that forms are fully completed, including the required GP proforma.
Certificate holders were reminded that remaining in possession of firearms after a certificate has expired, without a formal extension, constitutes an offence under Section 1 of the Firearms Act 1968. The forces will not respond to queries about how long applications are taking to process, nor will it accept incomplete submissions.
In an effort to improve transparency, the triforce licensing department has launched a new monthly newsletter aimed at rebuilding trust and providing updates on legislative changes, staffing and performance. The newsletter, sent to members of its Independent Advisory Group (IAG), outlines ongoing recruitment efforts, inter-force support, and the recent appointment of Temporary Chief Superintendent Jon Roche as the department’s lead officer.
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The Gun Trade Association (GTA), which represents the UK’s firearms trade, had asked to attend the IAG but was told it could only do so in 2026. The decision has been viewed by some within the trade as dismissive, given the GTA’s role in representing registered firearms dealers and its ongoing work with government on licensing reform.
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Richard Fuller, Conservative MP for North Bedfordshire, recently met with the Bedfordshire Police Chief Constable to discuss the ongoing licensing delays, which he described as “unacceptably long.” Fuller said the Chief Constable was open about the shortcomings and is eager to find solutions, including exploring how artificial intelligence could improve efficiency.
Bedfordshire Police is currently spearheading national efforts to identify practical applications of AI within policing, with early results described as “impressive.” Fuller suggested that the same technology could be used to help streamline firearms licensing assessments, reducing processing times and administrative burdens.
However, as Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire operate a shared licensing system, Fuller noted that progress depends on cooperation across all three forces. He described the Chief Constable as a “frustrated pioneer” — someone who sees the potential but must first persuade others to adopt the technology.
Fuller confirmed that he will meet again with the Chief Constable before Christmas and, if necessary, in early 2026 to monitor progress in clearing the backlog and improving application turnaround times.