78.—(1) For the purposes of this Article the relevant provisions are Articles 3 to 13 and paragraphs 1 and 4 of Schedule 1.
(2) The relevant provisions shall not apply to the following persons in their capacity as such so far as they relate to the possession of firearms and ammunition—
(a)police officers;
(b)members of the police support staff;
(c)police trainees and police reserve trainees (within the meaning of the Police (Northern Ireland) Act 2000 (c. 32); and
(d)members of any Harbour or Airport Police.
(3) Subject to paragraph (4), the relevant provisions shall apply to the persons specified in paragraph (2)(a) to (d) so far as they relate to the purchase or acquisition of firearms and ammunition.
(4) The Chief Constable may purchase or acquire firearms or ammunition for police purposes without holding a firearm certificate.