New rules on fireworks are called for

Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MSP Alasdair Allan has welcomed calls for a fundamental shift in the way fireworks are bought and sold in Scotland.
By The Newsroom
Published 20th Nov 2020, 08:15 BST
The law may have to be changed if the recommendations are accepted.The law may have to be changed if the recommendations are accepted.
The law may have to be changed if the recommendations are accepted.

The independent Firework Review Group, established by the Scottish Government, has called for the introduction of no firework zones and tighter restrictions on the use of fireworks to help tackle anti-social behaviour at this time of year.

The group, chaired by former Chief Fire Officer Alasdair Hay, also recommended: the introduction of mandatory conditions when fireworks are purchased from retailers; restricting the times of day fireworks can be sold and volume of fireworks that can be purchased at any one time; restricting the days and times fireworks can be set off; the creation of a proxy purchasing offence to prevent adults from buying fireworks on behalf of those under the age of 18.

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Welcoming the recommendations, Mr Allan said: “There is widespread public support across the country for a crack down on the negative impact of antisocial firework use. Last year, we saw this kind of behaviour happen in Stornoway and I often hear complaints about the impact of fireworks on pets and livestock.

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“This Scottish Government is determined to make these recommendations a reality and help keep our local communities safe from the harmful use of fireworks.

Former CFO Alasdair Hay said: “I am pleased to set out the recommendations from the Review Group.

“We have carefully considered the available evidence and believe a step change is needed in how fireworks are accessed and used by the general public.”