By George Jenkins
Leeds South West and Morley MP Mark Sewards has supported petitions which would limit
firework use in a recent debate.
The two petitions, which have received over 375,000 combined signatures, looked at
reducing the maximum noise level of fireworks and limiting the sale of fireworks to only those running council-approved events.
Mr Sewards spoke at a Parliamentary debate last week about how fireworks are blighting communities.
He spoke of his enjoyment of organised firework displays, but emphasised the negative impact the volume and frequency of fireworks, particularly around big events, had
on his constituents.
He also highlighted the effect it has on veterans, with mental health charity Combat Stress finding that 74% of survey respondents calling for restrictions on when fireworks can be set off.
Mr Sewards argued that, whilst changes need to be made regarding sale and noise levels,
the existing laws need stronger policing.
He said: “What can the Government do to ensure that no fireworks are set off between 11pm and 7am, which is currently the law for every night of the year except key holidays?
“What will the Government do to crack down on those who sell fireworks illegally, which we
know is happening?”
Constituents of Leeds South West and Morley – which includes Farnley and Wortley – have been vocal about the issues around fireworks, mainly due to the impact they have on those who suffer from PTSD, anxiety, and special educational needs, as well as pets.
Mr Sewards continued: “We should all do our bit to support our veterans and other
vulnerable constituents.
“We should continue to enjoy the wonderful firework displays at key times of the year; I know that I certainly will.
“However, we should readjust the scales to get the balance right between different freedoms: the freedom to enjoy fireworks must be carefully balanced against the freedom to live our lives in peace.”
He added: “At a minimum, we must turn down the volume on fireworks sold to the public and enforce existing laws. Beyond that, the Government should seriously consider the merits of going further and restricting the sale of fireworks to those involved in professional displays.”
Kate Dearden, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Department of Business and
Trade, told MPs that the issues surrounding fireworks remains a key priority for the Government, and that concerns raised during the debate will considered.
She said the Government is continuing to collect evidence in this area, including looking at the impact of changes to the law in Scotland, before any decision is taken.
The parliamentary debate can be read in full here.
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