Halifax MP launches Government review of firework laws

As Minister for Consumer Protection, Kate Dearden has launched what the Government is calling the “biggest review of fireworks regulations in more than two decades.”

They are inviting people from across the country to help shape the future of fireworks legislation, said Ms Dearden.

She said concerns raised by residents in Halifax include about misuse and, with these concerns echoed nationally, she has “made reviewing the UK’s fireworks regulations a top priority”.

The consultation is seeking views on proposals including restricting the availability of the noisiest fireworks - with louder products only being available to professional displays, increasing the number of products that are banned due to unacceptable risk to communities, and reviewing the wider regulatory framework for fireworks classified as “lower risk”.

Ms Dearden says she has spent months bringing together charities, campaigners, animal welfare organisations, industry representatives and consumer groups to examine how the law could better protect people, animals and communities, while ensuring fireworks can continue to be enjoyed safely and responsibly.

Concerns raised about growing misuse includes fireworks’ impact on pets, young children, veterans, emergency workers and local communities affected by anti-social behaviour, she said.

Ms Dearden says one constituent told her: “Every year between Halloween and Bonfire Night, we book an Air B and B in rural Northumberland just to get away from the constant fireworks.

“It’s the only way our family and our dogs can get some peace.”

The 12-week public consultation is available for people to see and contribute online at https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/fireworks-and-pyrotechnics-in-the-uk/fireworks-and-pyrotechnics-in-the-uk .

“Few issues have filled my inbox quite like the misuse of fireworks,” said Ms Dearden.

“Ever since I was elected, residents across Halifax have contacted me about frightened pets, sleepless nights and anti-social behaviour linked to irresponsible fireworks use.

“Extremely loud fireworks used by individuals at all hours of the day and night has become a nightmare for many communities in recent years.

“The sound of large explosions on residential streets is a cause of fear, disrupted sleep, and does huge harm to our beloved pets.”

She said the misuse also often goes alongside wider forms of anti-social behaviour.

“Fireworks used properly are great fun, and we want the organised and licensed public displays which bring communities together to continue.

“That’s why we’re looking to limit the sale of loud fireworks only to these displays, and take them out of the hands of those who use them irresponsibly,” she said.