Emma Hardy, MP for Hull West and Haltemprice, has welcomed the Government’s announcement of the largest review of fireworks legislation since it was first introduced, following her long-running calls for action to tackle the anti-social use of fireworks in local communities.
Since being elected, Emma has heard from many local residents who have raised concerns about irresponsible fireworks use throughout the year. Residents have reported fireworks being set off late at night and outside of traditional celebration periods, causing distress to veterans, disrupting working families, frightening pets and upsetting young children.
After raising these concerns with Government colleagues and pushing for stronger measures to address the issue, Emma has welcomed Labour’s decision to launch a comprehensive 12-week consultation on the future of fireworks regulation.
The review marks a significant step forward in addressing concerns that have been ignored for too long. Thanks to the advocacy of Labour MPs, including Emma Hardy, the Government is now seeking views directly from residents, community groups and stakeholders on how fireworks can be enjoyed safely while reducing their negative impact on neighbourhoods.
The consultation will consider a range of proposals, including:
- Restricting the availability of the loudest fireworks so that they are only available for professional displays.
- Increasing the number of fireworks products that can be banned where they present an unacceptable risk to communities under Regulation 33 of the Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015.
- Reviewing the wider regulatory framework for lower-risk fireworks to ensure regulations accurately reflect the risks they pose.
The proposed changes aim to strike a balance between allowing communities to continue enjoying organised celebrations and reducing the disruption caused by irresponsible use.
Emma Hardy MP said: “For years, residents across Hull West and Haltemprice have told me about the impact that anti-social fireworks use is having on their daily lives. I’ve heard from veterans who find the sudden loud explosions deeply distressing, from families whose children are frightened by fireworks being set off late at night, and from pet owners who worry about the impact on their animals.
“That is why I have been calling for action and why I am pleased to see Labour launching this major review of fireworks legislation. We need sensible measures that allow people to enjoy fireworks responsibly while tackling the anti-social behaviour that causes misery for so many residents.
“I would encourage everyone with views on this issue to take part in the consultation so that local voices can help shape the future of fireworks regulation.”
One local resident from Anlaby contacted Emma after fireworks were repeatedly set off in their neighbourhood late into the evening, causing distress to their rescue dog and preventing young children from sleeping. Stories like these have become increasingly common and highlight the need for action.
The review forms part of Labour’s wider efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour, strengthen communities and make neighbourhoods safer places to live.
Kate Dearden, Minister for Consumer Protection, said: “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. It is a practice that 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. This will crack down on anti-social behaviour and protect Britain’s pets.”