Response to question about their current Fiream Policy
The Liberal Party of Australia
Federal Secretariat
12 August 1998
Dear Mr Tidswell,
Thank you for your letter reagrding the Coalition firearms policy. My apologies for the delay in responding.
Firstly, can I make it quite clear that the decision taken by all the Police Ministers in May 1996 following the Port Arthur tragedy, will be upheld.
The Prime Minister has given strong leadership on this issue and the removal of many firearms and restricted access to semi-automatic firearms is widely supported in the community.
Tightening of licencing, including access, training in safety, storage and other requirements, has been agreed to by the State and Territory Governments. This agreement included legislation to back the decision. The Prime Minister expects this to be fully implemented by all States and Territories and is prepared to take further steps to ensure this happens.
Having said this, the Coalition recognises that there are many Australians who have a genuine reason or interest to have ownership and access to legitimate firearms subject to sensible and reasonable licencing.
That your organisation has more than 100,000 members is an indication that there is a sizeable proportion of the community who wish to recognised as responsible gun or rifle owners. We acknowledge the positive and important role associations like yours play in developing a culture of safe firearms use.
Likewise, there are those such as farmers and vermin hunters who need a firearm as a tool of trade.
The positive contribution made by your members and other associations to wetland conservation is to be recommeneded.
As well, all Australians should recognise the skills of our international shooters, including two gold and a bronze medal at the Atlanta Olympics.
Also, can I assure your members that the Coalition has no plans to further restrict the legitimate pursuits of responsible firearm owners. Contrast this with comments by Labor leaders who make no secret of their desire to further reduce access to firearms in the community.
If I can be of any further assistance in relation to this matter, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Yours sincerely
(signed)
Lynton Crosby
Federal Director
Original held SSAA National
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