Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what steps she has taken to reduce the nuisance caused by fireworks; what plans she has to reduce instances of nuisance and abuse; and if she will make a statement.

The Government’s approach to the safe use of fireworks and reducing nuisance is to encourage industry, retailers and others to promote responsible use through guidance and public education. There is also significant regulation in place covering the supply, storage, possession and use of fireworks, which helps to reduce instances of nuisance and abuse. This includes restrictions on when fireworks can be sold, curfews which limit the hours during which fireworks can be used, local authority powers to deal with excessive firework noise and a prohibition on setting off or throwing fireworks in the street or other public places.

In addition, the police or local authorities can consider the use of the powers provided by the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, if they are satisfied that the relevant legal tests are met, to tackle those who cause alarm or distress to others through their misuse of fireworks.