MP supports campaign for quieter fireworks

A Leicester MP has backed government plans to reduce the noise of fireworks sold to the public.

Shockat Adam, independent MP for Leicester South, said constituents frequently raised concerns about the impact of fireworks on pets.

The government is currently considering tighter restrictions which could see the maximum noise of fireworks sold for private use cut from 120 to 110 decibels.

Adam said: "Nobody wants to ban fireworks, but it's the hours in which they are used, particularly after one in the morning, and the stress levels it causes to their pets."

"For all the people that show concerns about fireworks, over 90% is because of concerns they have for their animals, particularly their dogs.

"It's the noise level that affects people, not just animals, but also people who suffer from PTSD, young children and those that suffer with learning disabilities.

"I support fully reducing the decibels."

Under current rules, fireworks cannot normally be set off after 23:00, with exemptions for occasions including Bonfire Night, Diwali and New Year's Eve.

The government has proposed reducing the maximum noise level of fireworks available to the public from 120 to 110 decibels.

Under the proposals, louder fireworks would still be available to professionals to be used in organised public displays.

It said an outright ban on the public buying fireworks would not be proportionate.

The government said it will publish a summary of responses and its plans, and any future changes would need parliamentary approval.

The RSPCA said it had joined other animal charities in campaigning for stronger controls on the loudest of fireworks, and the use of alternatives.

A spokesperson said: "Every year many thousands of pets, farmed animals, horses and countless wild animals suffer from stress, injury and even death caused by loud, unregulated fireworks."

Adam said people could prepare for fireworks on key celebration days but argued prolonged use was causing problems.

"People can make arrangements for three days. People can make arrangements for four days.

"It's when people continue for weeks on end and days on end, letting off fireworks after one in the morning, that is the issue."

Asked whether existing regulations should be better enforced rather than introducing new restrictions, Adam acknowledged policing the rules, which includes giving on-the-spot fines, was difficult.

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