First published in 1972 Firearms Control is the result of research carried out at the Cambridge University Institute of Criminology, looks at the various problems involved in firearms control. Chief Inspector Greenwood, a serving police officer, makes use, in his investigation of the problem, of fascinating material not previously published or largely forgotten. He reveals massive and dangerous shortcomings in the official statistics, and his detailed and original findings show how badly the problem has been misunderstood. He examines closely current legislation and current policies, showing the effort they involve and the product of that effort.

The findings of Firearms Control call into question many of the attitudes and theories which have hitherto been unquestioningly accepted. Colin Greenwood here recommends radical changes both in legislative and administrative attitudes to firearms control, with a view to reducing the burden on the police there by permitting them to devote their time to methods which are likely to be productive. The book will command attention of legislators and police, sociologists, statisticians, lawyers, and laymen.