West Lothian MP calls for ban on sale of fireworks to public

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A West Lothian MP is calling for a total ban on the sale of fireworks to members of the public.Following another Guy Fawkes Night marred by incidents, and a number of enquiries from constituents, Martyn Day MP has written to the Secretary of State to once again call on the UK government to ban the sake of fireworks to the public.The sale of fireworks is governed by the Fireworks Regulations 2004 (as amended).

Currently anybody over the age of 18 can buy category 2 and 3 fireworks.According to a joint survey from military charities Combat Stress and Help for Heroes 23% of veterans said fireworks have triggered a negative experience for them personally.Data from the Kennel Club shows that nearly half of dog owners report that their dog is scared by fireworks and 80% of owners report a change in their dog’s behaviour during fireworks season; there is also a 100% increase in dogs going missing during this time.Mr Day MP said: “The lead up to Bonfire Night, and the 5th November in particular, is marred by anti-social behaviour up and down the country.

Every year we hear stories of emergency services being attacked and resources being stretched due to having to attend firework related incidents.“The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service received more than 892 calls from the public and Operations Control mobilised firefighters to approximately 355 bonfires across the country between 3.30pm and Midnight on Guy Fawkes Night.“All of our emergency services face attack, not just the fire service.

When responding to incidents at this time of year emergency crews often face missile attack, be these fireworks or other objects being thrown.