A push is underway by MPs to strengthen regulations surrounding crossbow sales, following a gruesome incident where a former soldier killed a woman and her two daughters. Matt Turmaine, MP for Watford, emphasized the importance of tightening laws around crossbow sales, particularly in light of the crimes committed by Kyle Clifford. Clifford is set to receive his sentencing after confessing to the murder of Carol Hunt and the shooting of her daughters Louise and Hannah with a crossbow in their residence in Bushey.
Despite concerns that stricter rules may impact elderly and disabled individuals who use crossbows for ease of use, the governing body of archery expressed its willingness to collaborate with the government. Clifford, originally from Enfield, North London, admitted to the murders, false imprisonment, and possession of weapons. He was also found guilty of raping Louise Hunt, his former partner, after their relationship ended abruptly before the tragic events unfolded.
Acknowledging the urgency for action, Health Minister Stephen Kinnock echoed Turmaine’s sentiments by emphasizing the need for regulation of crossbows as lethal weapons. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has been urged to assess the issue further, considering the ease with which individuals can obtain such dangerous weapons. A spokesperson from the Home Office condemned the violent act committed against the Hunt family, labeling it as a horrific and senseless crime that warranted an evaluation of existing regulations to determine if further measures were necessary.
In response to the growing concerns surrounding crossbows, various organizations and key figures have voiced their support for implementing tighter controls on their sale and usage. The National Crossbow Federation President, John Bingham, supported the idea of a licensing system to monitor crossbow ownership effectively. Adding to the discussion, the head of an indoor shooting range, Alan Gregory, suggested the introduction of face-to-face sales and identification requirements to enhance accountability in the acquisition of crossbows. Despite the relatively low number of fatalities from crossbow-related incidents in recent years, past tragedies have underscored the potential dangers associated with the misuse of such weapons
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