MP backs calls for tougher fireworks rules

An MP has called for a toughening of laws to reduce the antisocial use of fireworks.

Shipley MP Anna Dixon wrote to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper earlier this week calling for measures including reducing the legal decibel level and assessing the banning of the most disruptive categories of fireworks.

Dixon said she received many emails from constituents about how noisy fireworks were affecting them.

She said: “I have spoken to residents in Wrose and Baildon and heard how fireworks are preventing them from sleeping or causing emotional distress to them and their pets.”

The Labour MP also called for tighter licensing arrangements, particularly to curb the sale of fireworks to children.

She said: “The law is clear that fireworks should not disturb the peace after 23:00. However, it is evident that some individuals are disregarding this.

“It has been two decades since the last set of regulations on fireworks and it would be good to revisit this issue.

“It was the previous Labour government that last took action on antisocial firework use, and I would support the new government taking action on it again.”

In September, Bradford families called for a curb to the “year-round" use of fireworks with an online petition and demonstration outside Bradford City Hall.

In England and Wales, it is illegal to set off fireworks between 23:00 and 07:00, except on Bonfire Night when the cut-off is midnight.

For personal use, fireworks can only be purchased from registered seasonal sellers between 15 October and 10 November, from Boxing Day until New Year's Eve, and three days prior to Diwali and Chinese New Year.

The government's Department for Business and Trade previously told the BBC public safety was a "priority", but insisted "councils and the police have powers to protect the public from misuse and harm".

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