UK tightens gun laws to bar violent, abusive individuals

British authorities announced new rules on Tuesday, tightening the possession and use of firearms, aiming to prevent individuals with violent records or histories of domestic abuse from owning guns.

According to the British news agency PA Media, the updated guidelines come in response to concerns raised by forensic experts and activists following recent shootings in Woodman’s Cottage and Keyham, England.

Under the new rules, police officers will interview partners or other family members of applicants seeking firearm licenses to identify signs of domestic abuse or other disqualifying factors.

Additional background checks will be conducted to ensure that licenses are not granted to those with violent criminal histories.