Tynemouth MP Alan Campbell has backed new moves in the House of Commons to toughen up the law on fireworks. Here he sets out the main clauses of the Bill.

Introduction

"For centuries, fireworks have been used to celebrate and entertain. In recent years, and particularly since the Millennium celebrations, problems caused by the irresponsible use of fireworks have multiplied. In addition to the well-publicised number of injuries caused to people every year, older people are being intimidated, young children are having their sleep disrupted and animals of all types are being injured and traumatized.

In the past, attempts to put safeguards in place have proved ineffective, and voluntary agreements restricting when fireworks are sold have failed to prevent year round sales.

Within recent years, at least two attempts have been made to restrict the sale and use of fireworks using Private Members Bills. Theses failed due to reasons unconnected with the issue itself and, in the course of their progress, they gained significant support amongst MPs.

On 28th February 2003, Bill Tynan MP’s Fireworks Bill received its Second Reading. The Fireworks Bill represents the best opportunity yet of introducing measures which will promote the responsible use of fireworks, limit noise levels and ensure that those involved in the sale of fireworks and the organization of public displays are properly licensed.

The Bill is supported by members from all parties. The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA), the RSPCA, the Blue Cross, the Cats Protection League, the SSPCA, NCDL, the British Horse Society, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, National Federation of Blind People, The Kennel Club and a broad spectrum of other voluntary and community organizations.

The Fireworks Bill

"The Fireworks Bill has been presented by Bill Tynan MP and is sponsored by MPs from the Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Scottish Nationalist parties. It received its Second Reading in the House of Commons on Friday 28th 2003 and passes on to its Committee Stage for clause by clause scrutiny.

The Clauses

"Clause 1 – Introduction
This clause defines what is meant by ‘fireworks’ and allows for this definition to be amended as and when new products come into the market.

Clause 2 – Power to make regulations about fireworks
This clause gives the Government powers to regulate the sale, use and importation of fireworks with a view to protecting humans, animals and property.

Clause 3 – Prohibition of supply etc to young persons
This clause aims to ensure that fireworks are not sold to people under a specified age, currently 18 years old.

Clause 4 – Prohibition of supply etc in certain circumstances
This clause will allow restrictions to be placed on when fireworks can be bought and sold and when they can be used.

Clause 5 – Prohibition of supply etc of certain fireworks
This clause allows for restrictions to be placed on which types of fireworks may be sold to the public and which can only be supplied to recognised fireworks display organizers.

Clause 6 – Public fireworks displays
This clause will introduce requirements for public display organiser to:
- inform local people in advance of any forthcoming display
- ensure that all involved are properly trained
- ensure that adequate insurance is in place

Clause 7 – Licensing of suppliers
This clause requires suppliers of fireworks to be fully and effectively licensed, ensuring that they are trained in their handling and storage. It also allows for fees to be charged for licenses.

Clause 8 – Information about fireworks
This clause introduces requirements for the effective labelling of fireworks and the inclusion of appropriate pack information.

Clause 9 – Prohibition of importation etc of fireworks
This clause aims to tighten regulations concerning the importation of fireworks from overseas.

Clause 10 – Training courses
This clause allows for the accreditation of training courses concerning the sale and use of fireworks by suppliers and display organizers.

Clause 11 – Offences
This clause outlines what penalties may be available to those who break the law concerning fireworks and also refers to penalties already available under the Consumer Protection Act 1987.

Clause 12 – Enforcement
This clause allows for local authorities to take enforcement action, including carrying out test purchases, carrying out searches and gathering information.
Clause 13 – 19
These clauses all refer to procedural issues.

Note
A clause to restrict noise levels will be introduced at the committee stage.