2-07-04

Firework proposals ‘must be toughened up’ – Barrett

John Barrett, Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West, has called on the Government to 'toughen up' their proposed new regulations on tackling firework misuse.

The Government has been consulting on new firework regulations, which seek to reduce the distress caused by the misuse of fireworks through a number of ways. The move follows new powers granted under the Fireworks Act passed by the House of Commons last year.

The central proposal in the regulations is to introduce a curfew on the setting off of fireworks between 11pm and 7am, although there will be special consideration for traditional events such as Hogmanay and Guy Fawkes Night. Other measures include a limit on the noise of fireworks sold to the public, limits on the times of the year fireworks can be sold and a new system of licensing for retailers.

In his formal response to the consultation, which closes today, John Barrett, who has been a leading campaigner on firework issues, supported many of the proposals but said some could go further.

Commenting, he said:

"Firework misuse has been one of the most frequently raised issues with me since I entered Parliament. Over 2,000 of my constituents have now contacted me about the issue over the last three years.

"If enforced properly, some of the Government's plans, such as the proposed curfew and limit on firework noise, could go a long way in reducing the distress caused by fireworks. However, the proposals will only be effective if the police are given the resources they need to enforce the new law.

"That said, some of the other plans are a bit half baked. The Government plans to introduce restrictions on the times of the year fireworks can be sold.  However, the amount of leeway given, including almost a month around Guy Fawkes Night, will likely mean most people will not notice a difference. Similarly, the licensing of retailers, which is vital to tackling underage sales, is only proposed for certain times of the year. What we really need is year round licensing with the ability to revoke a shop's license if they are found to be flouting the law.

"There is no question that the Government is taking steps in the right direction.  However, there is still room for improvement. It is not a case of being killjoys.  It is about new laws which will better protect the public, pets and wildlife."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

Mr Barrett's full response to the consultation paper (pdf, 114KB).