The Petitions Committee has launched an inquiry into current UK fireworks law after almost 750,000 people have signed a series of petitions calling on the government to change the current legislation.
The move has come about following public pressure and will see MPs considering the case for a complete ban selling to the public for general use.
One of the current petitions has been signed by nearly 300,000 people and calls for a ban on the sale of fireworks to the public and for fireworks displays to be restricted to licensed venues.
Others have raised concerns about the noise and nuisance caused by fireworks and the effects on children, veterans suffering with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and animals, for example.
“Through the scores of petitions we have received on this it is clear that public feeling about fireworks is very strong, and there is a real need to scrutinise the current laws,” said Labour MP Helen Jones, chair of the petitions committee.
She continued; “The government believes the rules on fireworks are effective, but the law hasn’t been looked at for some time. We want to make sure the law and rules strike the right balance between respecting traditions, allowing the enjoyment of fireworks and protecting people, animals and property.”
The inquiry will lead to a report with recommendations to the government, which may include taking action on a y concerns raised. The government will have to respond to those recommendations.
