Children as young as nine have been given shotgun licences in Wales, according to information obtained by Plaid Cymru.
More than 530 under 18s have either shotgun or firearms licences, which cover rifles, Plaid Cymru were told following the request under the Freedom of Information Act.
South Wales Police, Wales’ biggest force, has given out two 10-year-olds shotgun licences while Dyfed Powys Police has given out two licences to nine-year-olds and one to a 10-year-old.
Dyfed Powys said that one shotgun certificate belonging to a 15 year old was revoked in 2010. No details were provided why this happened.
North Wales Police issued 71 shot gun certificates to people under the age of 18, the youngest was issued to a child of 11 years old. Two firearm certificates were granted to two 15 year olds.
Over the last five years of those granted before the age of 18 in the North Wales Police area, nine have been revoked.
There is no lower age limit in the UK which restricts the granting of firearms/shotgun licences. However, strict provisions and firearm guidelines are in place. A licence is not required for low powered air rifles and air pistols.
Plaid Cymru AM Chris Franks said: “Many members of the public will be shocked that children as young as 9 have been given shotgun licences. While adults do supervise children, accidents can happen and I want to see action before there is a tragedy not after.
“A review of the licensing laws and, in particular, the age limit for licences is needed. There should be restrictions on the sale of air rifles and air pistols which can also be lethal.”
The Commons Home Affairs Select Committee has called for one licensing system to cover all guns, replacing the current regimes, and for minimum age limits to be considered “with the aim of reducing inconsistency and complexity around the use of firearms by children”.
