Perhaps it’s the name that sparks intrigue The Gun. This pub has a story that stretches far beyond pulling pints. Let’s step back and uncover some of the tales hidden within its walls.
The Gun stands as a historic pub in London. It is located on Cold Harbour, near the River Thames. The Gun got its name from its connection to the military. It’s said that the pub was used for signalling ships on the Thames.
Now I want to share with you a smart-aleck piece of information about gun control. The UK has some of the strictest gun control laws in the world. This contrasts sharply with the relative ease of gun ownership in some other countries.
In the UK, gun ownership is a privilege not a right. The State has a duty to protect the public from their misuse. It is an offence to possess a firearm with intent to endanger life. The maximum penalty is life imprisonment.
Handguns were banned in the UK in 1997. This followed the tragic Dunblane school shooting. This event killed sixteen children and their teacher. A national firearms amnesty followed. Around 23000 firearms were surrendered.
To own a gun in the UK, you must be assessed by the police. You must not pose a threat to public safety. You must have good reason to own the firearm. A good reason can include needing one for work sport or leisure.
Since Dunblane, there have been seven mass shootings in the UK. These collectively killed 24 people and injured 41. In 2021, the UK experienced its worst mass shooting in more than 10 years. Jake Davison shot and killed five people in Plymouth.
Gun crime has increased by 4% in one year. More than 9700 crimes involved firearms. This took place in the UK.
The maximum penalty for committing a firearms offence is 10 years imprisonment. The mandatory minimum sentence for those aged 18 and over is five years imprisonment. Under Section 16 of the 1968 Act it is an offence to possess a firearm with intent to endanger life. The maximum penalty is life imprisonment.
The UK’s laws around gun crimes were tightened further with the Offensive Weapons Act 2019. Bump stocks, lever release firearms and high muzzle energy firearms were all prohibited. This came in response to the 2017 shooting spree at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.
So, while you enjoy the ambiance of The Gun, remember the broader context. The UK’s approach to firearms is shaped by a commitment to public safety. The Gun’s name may evoke images of weaponry. However, the UK has a strong emphasis on control and responsibility.