asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many attempts known to the authorities in England and Wales were made in each of the last three available years to smuggle firearms or ammunition in the country; if these weapons were seized in each case; and what proceedings were taken against those responsible.

The number of attempts known to the customs to smuggle arms or ammunition into England and Wales were: 1972, 7; 1973, 9; 1974, 10. All the weapons were seized, and proceedings were taken in each case as appropriate under the Customs and Excise Act 1952, the Firearms Act 1968, military law or for conspiracy under common law.