While many people really enjoy the use of fireworks on special occasions, I appreciate others do not like them and have concerns especially around the impact the noise can have on animals and family pets. Fireworks can also, of course, be dangerous and so it is right that the use and sale of them is controlled.
The last Government did consider, very closely, the matter of a ban on the sale of fireworks to the general public. All the evidence, however, is that the majority of people who enjoy fireworks are prepared to use them sensibly and responsibly on specific occasions as a form of popular family entertainment. A ban could lead to an unregulated ‘black market’ in illegal fireworks and could encourage people to produce their own dangerous homemade devices. Enforcement of the existing regime, rather than a ban, helps to prevent this occurring.
The last Government therefore concluded that fireworks should not be banned for sale to, or use by, the general public. I support the considerate use of fireworks and believe that the existing framework strikes the right balance between allowing individuals to enjoy fireworks while reducing the risks and disturbances to individuals, animals and property. I understand the Labour Government does not have any plans at present to introduce new restrictions on the use of fireworks, or to reduce their maximum noise level.
To reduce disturbance to both animals and people, there is a noise level limit of 120 decibels on fireworks for home use and the Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to animals through the misuse of fireworks. They should not be set off near livestock or close to buildings that house livestock, or near to horses in fields. Anyone planning a firework display in rural areas should warn neighbouring farmers.
In addition, I understand that retailers are restricted to selling consumer fireworks during a limited period around specific seasonal celebrations, and retailers may only supply fireworks outside these periods if they obtain a licence from their local licensing authorit. Fireworks used for professionally organised displays are only available for sale to people who have undertaken an accredited course of training in pyrotechnics. Enforcement powers exist for local authorities to take action when fireworks are unsafe, sold illegally or misused. Local authorities and the police also have powers to tackle anti-social behaviour caused by the misuse of fireworks.
Finally, the previous Government published a statutory Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs, which advises dog owners to avoid exercising with dogs during times when fireworks could be let off. They also worked with animal welfare groups in previous fireworks seasons to promote safe and considerate use of fireworks and I hope this practice will continue.
