Thank you for contacting me about fireworks and the impact they have on animals.
I appreciate your concerns about the impact of fireworks on animals and people and I note your suggestion for control zones to be introduced in the UK. I would be happy to pass on your comments to my ministerial colleagues to ensure they are aware of your concerns. However, I am not aware of any current plans to introduce further restrictions on the sale of fireworks to the public.
I understand that there is a noise level limit of 120 decibels on fireworks for home use, which helps to reduce disturbance to both animals and people. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to animals through the misuse of fireworks. Fireworks should not be set off near livestock or close to buildings that house livestock, or near to horses in fields. Anyone planning a firework display in rural areas should warn neighbouring farmers.
Further, I understand that retailers are restricted to only selling consumer fireworks during a limited period around specific seasonal celebrations, and retailers may only supply fireworks outside these periods if they obtain a licence from their local licensing authority. Fireworks used for professionally organised displays are only available for sale to people who have undertaken an accredited course of training in pyrotechnics.
Finally, the Government published a statutory Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs, which advises dog owners to avoid exercising with dogs during times when fireworks could be let off. I understand that during the 2021 fireworks season, the Government worked with animal welfare groups to promote the safe and considerate use of fireworks.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Craig Whittaker MP
November 2022