Political Opinion: David Taylor MP welcomes the largest review into fireworks legislation, after calling for action to tackle the anti-social use of them

Since getting elected, David Taylor MP for Hemel Hempstead has heard from nearly 100 local residents sharing their concerns about anti-social fireworks use, which has caused distress to local veterans, disrupted working people and terrified pets and young children.

After lobbying Government colleagues for action to address residents’ concerns, David Taylor MP welcomes the announcement that Labour is launching the largest review of fireworks legislation since it was first introduced.

Thanks to the advocacy of Labour MPs including David Taylor, MP for Hemel Hempstead, Labour is turning the tide on Tory inaction and has now launched a consultation to hear directly from residents about the change they want to see.

Through this review, families, children and their pets will be able to go about their day with less disturbance, whilst still ensuring residents can enjoy fireworks safely and as part of the community and cultural celebrations they play a part in.

This review will ask respondents to comment on:

• Restricting the availability of the noisiest fireworks, with louder products only being available to professional displays,

• Increasing the number of products that are banned due to unacceptable risk to communities, under Regulation 33 of the Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015

• Reviewing the wider regulatory framework for fireworks classified as 'lower risk', to ensure that the law accurately reflects the different levels of risk that they pose.

David Taylor MP said: "Since being elected, I’ve heard from nearly 100 local residents in Hemel Hempstead about the distress caused by anti‑social fireworks use – from terrified pets and young children, to veterans and working people trying to rest.

After pressing the Government for action, I welcome Labour’s announcement of the biggest review of fireworks legislation since it was first introduced. This consultation will give residents a direct say in the changes they want to see, so families and their pets can go about their day with less disturbance, while still enjoying fireworks safely as part of community and cultural celebrations.”

This action comes alongside the wider steps that Labour is taking to tackle anti-social behaviour, bring residents together and make communities safer.

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.