Politically Speaking column with Simon Lightwood MP: Safer celebrations, stronger rules on fireworks
For years, constituents across Wakefield and Rothwell have contacted me about the anti-social use of fireworks in our communities.
I've heard from parents whose young children have been left frightened by explosions going off late at night. I've spoken to pet owners who dread certain times of year because they know their dogs, cats and other animals will spend hours distressed and terrified. I've also heard from veterans who find the sudden loud bangs deeply unsettling and from working people who simply want to get a decent night's sleep before getting up early for work the next morning.
These concerns aren't new. Residents have been raising them for many years. What has been missing is meaningful action from government. That's why I welcome our Labour government's decision to launch the biggest review of fireworks legislation since the rules were first introduced.
Since being elected, I have repeatedly raised residents' concerns with government colleagues and argued that we need a sensible approach that tackles anti-social behaviour while preserving the important role fireworks play in celebrations, cultural festivals and community events.
I'm pleased that the government has listened.
The new 12-week consultation will give people the opportunity to have their say on potential changes, including restricting the availability of the loudest fireworks so they can only be used at professional displays, increasing the number of fireworks that can be banned because they pose unacceptable risks to communities, and reviewing whether existing regulations properly reflect different levels of risk.
I believe this is a balanced and proportionate approach.
Most people who enjoy fireworks do so responsibly. Families attending organised displays, like those at Thornes Park, are not the problem. Community celebrations that bring people together are not the problem. The issue is the small minority who misuse fireworks in residential areas, often late into the night, causing unnecessary distress and disruption to everyone around them.
Sadly, many residents will recognise this from their own neighbourhoods. Every year I receive messages from people frustrated by fireworks being set off for weeks on end rather than around specific celebrations. Some describe pets trembling under furniture for hours. Others tell me their young children are woken repeatedly by loud bangs. These may seem like small issues individually, but together they have a real impact on people's quality of life.
Anyone who has seen a frightened dog shaking in a corner or spoken to an older relative who feels intimidated in their home knows this is not something we should simply dismiss as part of modern life.
This review is about finding the right balance. Fireworks can and should remain part of our national life. They are enjoyed by millions of people every year and play an important role in many community and cultural celebrations. But enjoyment for some should not come at the expense of fear, distress and disruption for others.
The government's wider mission is to make our communities safer, tackle anti-social behaviour and restore respect and consideration for our neighbours. Reviewing fireworks legislation is part of that effort.
I would encourage residents across Wakefield and Rothwell who have experiences or views on this issue to take part in the consultation and make their voices heard. Whether you support tougher restrictions, have concerns about specific aspects of the proposals, or simply want to share your experiences, this is your opportunity to help shape the future rules.
For too long, residents have felt their concerns were being ignored. Now action is being taken.
Together, we can help ensure fireworks remain something that brings communities together in celebration, rather than something that causes fear, distress and disruption in our neighbourhoods.