[svandamme]

Don't know bout UK, but do not assume that empty brass is free in all countries.
It sure as hell is not in Belgium or in Holland as it is considered a component that can be reloaded.

Technically, if i am in possession of an empty shell of a caliber i do not have a permit for, i am in violation.. Obviously that's a far stretch that i can answer with ,well i pick up my own brass, this .40 SW must have gotten in there while i picked up my own .45ACP, honest mistake.

But people without a permit, are not allowed to have any usable brass according to the law.. I doubt anybody will be put in jail over it, but technically it's not allowed.

So do not assume it is, just because it would be ok in the US.
When in doubt, drill a hole through the brass, making it unusable..