Martin Whitfield MSP is urging anyone with concerns about the current laws governing the sale and use of fireworks to respond to a consultation on new legislative proposals.
The Scottish Government has published plans for a new Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Bill aimed at introducing measures to strengthen the existing law on fireworks and tackle the misuse of pyrotechnics.
Proposals outlined in the consultation include the introduction of an offence to criminalise the supply of adult fireworks to people under the age of 18 and the introduction of ‘no firework’ zones.
The public are also being asked for their views on the extension of police powers to allow a stop-and-search provision for carrying pyrotechnics.
Speaking about the consultation, Martin Whitfield MSP said:
“I welcome the publication of this consultation on the Scottish government’s proposed Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Bill and its aim of strengthening controls over fireworks and pyrotechnics.
“I know from my time in the House of Commons that many people have serious concerns about the potential impact of fireworks, including on public safety, noise, animal welfare and the added danger they can cause to our emergency services.
“I am encouraging constituents across South Scotland who want to see changes to the law on fireworks and pyrotechnics to take advantage of this opportunity and submit their views to the bill consultation online over the next few weeks.”
The consultation, which will run until 15th August, can be viewed and completed online at www.gov.scot/news/fireworks-and-pyrotechnics-bill/