MP proposes law to restrict fireworks
The bill is one of three Private Members' Bills related to animal welfare going before Parliament.
Restrictions could be placed on the sale of fireworks to reduce the stress they can cause animals and people after a Private Members’ Bill was introduced to Parliament on Wednesday, 16 October.
Put forward by Luton North MP Sarah Owen, the Fireworks Bill is expected to include measures to reduce the impact of fireworks on animals through noise limits, firework control zones, and restricting when they can be sold. The exact details will be announced once the bill has been fully drafted.
The Private Members’ Bill is one of three related to animal welfare that will be going before Parliament. MPs will also consider a bill to ban fur imports and a bill to tackle puppy, kitten, and ferret smuggling.
Put forward by backbench MPs rather than the government, Private Members’ Bills can become law if they gather enough support in both Houses of Parliament. Earlier this year, a law to make dog and cat theft specific crimes came into force after it had originally been introduced as a Private Members’ Bill.
Ms Owen said: “I have received hundreds of letters and emails from concerned residents, frankly fed up of having their sleep and lives endlessly disrupted. Loud fireworks are also a huge cause of stress for pets, and can be distressing people with PTSD, bringing back painful or traumatic memories. It’s time to tighten the rules.
“I look forward to working with animal welfare and veterans charities, as well as MPs from across Parliament, in getting this crucial change through.”
Animal welfare charities such as the RSPCA have been campaigning for tighter restrictions on fireworks because of the stress they can cause pets, wildlife, and livestock.
David Bowles, head of public affairs at the RSPCA, said: “With Bonfire Night approaching, we know many people will be getting excited by fireworks – but it's important they are used responsibly, and consider animal welfare. “Our legislative framework in this area is long due an update, so it's really welcome to see this being looked at via a Private Members' Bill.”
Image © Shutterstock
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
