being in dire straits in the u.k

[CharlesHarris]

I cannot speak to the current situation in UK, as I haven't been there since the 1980s, but judging from the number of Brit expats I know who have moved to the US since 9/11/01, that might be an indicator. Others like HP are considering relocating to OZ or CA, and all those would seem good options for those having the means. Medical, technical and engineering fields in particular have more vacant positions than are able to be readily filled from US applicants.

As for possession of firearms by non-US citizens, the applicable Federal law is:

A nonimmigrant alien who has established residency in a State may purchase and take possession of a firearm from an unlicensed person, provided the buyer and seller are residents of the same State, and no other State or local law prohibits the transaction. A nonimmigrant alien with residency in a State may purchase a firearm from a licensee, provided the sale complies with all applicable laws and regulations.

[18 U.S.C. 922(a)(9); 27 CFR 478.29a]