Then perhaps a little context is required.
The success of the American revolution scared the crap out of the ruling British aristocracy, They realized that if they wanted to continue exploiting the resources of any colonies the natives and colonialist would have to be disarmed but it would have to be done subtly. Gun ownership was discouraged in many ways, a well trained and armed police force strict on crime reduced the need for gun ownership. Gun ownership in the colonies became a "privilege" not a "right".
The truth of the matter is, however that Ottawa can issue any proclamations it wants without noticeably affecting gun ownership simply because they have no idea where the guns are. Their is currently no efficient gun registry and the previously mandated gun registry was largely ignored by the majority of gun owners. I suspect this was one of the primary reasons the gun registry was scrapped: huge cost with nothing to show for it. The real problem with our draconian gun laws is that replacement with firearms using up to date technology becomes difficult.