Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Epping Forest, has voiced strong support for the Fireworks Bill during its latest parliamentary debate.
The Fireworks Bill seeks to amend the existing Firework Regulations 2004 by introducing reforms to how fireworks are sold and regulated. Currently, members of the public can purchase fireworks categorised as F1 (low hazard) F2 (low-to-medium hazard) and F3 (medium hazard). Under the Bill, the sale of F2 and F3 fireworks would be prohibited to the public, banning their purchase both online and in stores. Additionally, the Bill would ensure fireworks are only sold through licensed retailers and would reduce the noise limit from 120 decibels to 90 decibels.
Dr Hudson has been a long-standing advocate for tighter fireworks regulation. As the first vet elected to the House of Commons since 1884, he has repeatedly emphasised the physical and psychological harm fireworks can cause both humans and animals.
Dr Hudson recently sponsored an event with the Fireworks Working Group, a coalition of animal welfare, veteran and burn charities to discuss the urgent need for fireworks reform: https://www.neilhudson.org.uk/news/veterinary-mp-dr-neil-hudson-hosts-fireworks-awareness-event-ahead-bonfire-night
Speaking afterwards, Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Epping Forest said:
“The uncontrolled use of fireworks is incredibly distressing and can cause significant harm to both humans and animals.
“As a veterinary surgeon, I have seen first-hand the severe impacts fireworks can have on animals, both large and small, domestic and wild. Loud explosions can cause huge panic in animals, leading them to flee in fear, causing them to go missing and often resulting in injury or worse. Farm livestock and horses are especially vulnerable, and I know all too well the serious injuries which can be caused by animals attempting to flee as a result of being startled by the noises caused by fireworks.
“I am pleased to be supporting this Bill, which I hope will enable much-needed reform of current legislation.”
Dr Hudson's contribution in the House of Commons Chamber:
“I congratulate the hon. Member on bringing forward this important piece of legislation.
“She talks about how the uncontrolled use of fireworks is very distressing and causes distress and injury to people.
“As a veterinary surgeon, I have seen at first hand the impact on animals both large and small: cowering pets, pets that go missing, and farm animal livestock or horses that bolt and cause themselves horrific injuries. Does she agree that we need more regulation and control, so that people can protect themselves and animals?”
