Firework Legislation Comes Under Heat

MPs pledge support for changes to fireworks legislation at event in Westminster

A dozen MPs pledged their support to a campaign for changes to fireworks legislation in Westminster on 30th October 2024. The drop-in event, organised by The Fireworks Working Group (FWG), forms part of a wider campaign raising awareness surrounding the adverse effects of fireworks on not only animals, but people too.

The FWG features a strong line-up of well-respected charities such as Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Help for Heroes, Blue Cross for Pets, Dogs Trust, The British Horse Society, The Kennel Club and more.

Campaigns and Policy Manager at Redwings, Helen Whitelegg said: “The event was well attended considering it was such a busy day for MPs and the people who came were very supportive of the need to address the adverse impact of fireworks not only on horses but also on other animals, people, wildlife and the environment through changes to legislation.”

“We recognise that many people do not realise that horses die or are injured every year because of fireworks, and oftentimes the people near them are injured.

“Between 1st November 2010 and 29th February 2024, statistics compiled by the British Horse Society show there were 1,468 fireworks-related incidents involving horses – 49 horses died, 317 were injured and 84 people were hurt as a result. Here at Redwings, we have lost three of our own – Cinders, Percy and Sprite. The stats are alarming, but we know they only tell part of the story, and many more incidents go unrecorded.”

The event welcomed Fifteen MPs (or their representatives) to Portcullis House between 1.30 and 3.30pm on Wednesday, despite the Budget statement overrunning. Others expressed that they couldn’t attend but requested briefing documents from the group. A total of Twelve MPs gave their signatures of support.

One of the MPs who attended was Sarah Owen, MP for Luton North. Own has introduced a private members bill that would improve regulation around fireworks and reduce the maximum permitted noise level. The bill’s second reading will take place in the New Year.

Sponsoring the event, Dr Hudson was keen to express his thoughts:

“In my experience as a veterinary surgeon, both large animal and small animal, the impact of fireworks on them is huge. In terms of small animals, they suffer anxiety and trauma when they hear fireworks go off and in trying to get away from the sound. Lots of owners describe cats and dogs going missing if they get out. The impact on working dogs is very important, dogs who have an important role to play. I’ve sadly seen, in the large animal setting, what happens when horses bolt and the catastrophic injuries sustained on fences and other obstacles. 

“We need to strengthen the regulation of fireworks, particularly around private use of fireworks, so that pet owners and animal owners, including farmers, can take the best precautions to keep their animals safe. And of course, many people experience trauma with fireworks as well, for example military veterans. 

“I’m really proud to support this initiative, and I’m sure with cross party support we can come up with some sensible proposals to improve the law to protect our friends and loved ones.”

Sasha Misra, Help for Heroes Head of Communications, Public Affairs & Policy, said: “Our research indicates that nearly a quarter (23%) of all military veterans in England and Wales report fireworks triggering a negative experience for them. The unexpected flashes of light, loud noises, and the smell of fireworks and bonfires can revive painful and traumatic memories of combat, particularly in those suffering from PTSD.

“The cross-party support demonstrated at the event signals hope for meaningful change. In the meantime, we encourage those celebrating this season to be mindful in their use of fireworks, so everyone can feel safe and comfortable at this time of year.”

Members of the FWG will be joining fireworks campaigner Julie Doorne for the handover of a petition of over a million signatures at 10 Downing Street tomorrow afternoon (Tuesday 5th November), calling for an urgent review of legislation to prevent animals from suffering.