Strollin' Johnny - As these laws have prevailed in the UK for most, if not all, of the 20th Century, and possibly some time during the 19th, I don't have that answer, nor do I see any relevance in the question. The world has changed rather more than somewhat over that period.

Wrong again stroller.
First UK gun laws were passed in the 1920's following a discussion in parliament concerning the Russian Revolution. There was fear that this could happen in Britain & thus guns had to be registered.

Also, since the banning of handguns (not just semi-autos & revolvers) crimes involving handguns have risen. This from home office figures! Look them up if you are interested in the truth but I doubt if you will bother!