2 weeks Ago
The UK Government has responded to calls for the general public to be banned from buying and using fireworks. MPs debated the sale and use of fireworks in the UK on Monday (December 9) following several online petitions. One petition from Alan Smith called to "limit the sale and use of Fireworks to licence holders only" and received more than 78,000 signatures (at the time of writing).
Mr Smith, explaining the reason behind his petition, said: "Fireworks killed our mum, Josephine Smith. 'The law is not enough' MPs will debate later today whether the general public should be banned from buying and letting off fireworks. Alan Smith's mother Josephine, 88, died in a fire after two teenagers stuffed a lit firework through her postbox in October 2021.
pic.twitter.com/l98Z7VReXB — Good Morning Britain (@GMB) December 9, 2024 "Her home was attacked using fireworks.
We believe the use of fireworks after sale to the public cannot be policed. "We think all displays should be licensed and sales limited to licence holders only." Government responds to calls to ban the sale and use of fireworks Following a debate on Monday, the Government posted a response to Mr Smith's petition online.
The Government said: "Most people use fireworks in a responsible and safe manner, with laws in place to address misuse. "The Government intends to engage with stakeholders to gather evidence on the impact of fireworks. "The Government takes the misuse of fireworks issues seriously.
Where local issues are identified, councils and the police have powers to protect the public from misuse and harm. "Misuse of fireworks and illegal possession offenses are subject to an unlimited fine and/or six months in prison." The statement added the Government was examining "existing positions" on the matter and would decide "if and where policy changes may be needed".
The Government continued: "The safety of the public and the impact on people, animals and property will be central in decisions on how we proceed in relation to the regulation of fireworks. "To inform any future decisions the Government intends to engage with businesses, consumer groups and charities shortly after fireworks season to gather evidence on the issues with and impacts of fireworks. "While we consider the potential of future regulatory changes, there are steps we can take now to ensure people are able to enjoy fireworks responsibly.
" The statement explained there is already guidance in place from the Government and other organisations "to ensure people use fireworks in a safe and considerate manner". Do you think there should be a ban on the sale and use of fireworks in the UK? Let us know in our poll above, or the comments section below..
