The Firearms Control Amendment Bill has sparked a loaded debate. Image: 123RF/123RF Premium The proposed Firearms Control Amendment Bill has sparked debate since it was issued in the government gazette last week. Among other things, the proposed bill indicates that applicants applying for a firearm should provide a valid reason and that no licences will be issued to civilians for self-defence purposes. Members of the public have until the end of July 4 to comment. According to police minister Bheki Cele, more than 17,000 written submissions have been received since the gazette was published on Friday and this number is growing by the day.