I believe that action needs to be taken to address the misuse of fireworks and the harm that they cause.
Every year, I hear from constituents about the negative impact of fireworks on them, their relatives, and their pets.
I am also well aware of reports from veterans’ organisations, and veterans themselves, about the impact that fireworks have on them.
This year, I have been able to introduce a Private Member’s Bill, under the Ten Minute Rule, which aims to tackle this issue; the ‘Fireworks (Noise Control etc) Bill’.
The Bill had its First Reading on 3 December, and you can read my speech introducing it here. It will start its Second Reading if and when Parliamentary time allows.
Obviously, I hope that the Fireworks (Noise Control etc) Bill will be able to make it into law, however, if nothing else, I want to use it to keep this issue on the political agenda, even as we exit the time of year when firework use is most prevalent.