§ 2.35 p.m.
§ BARONESS RAVENSDALE of KEDLESTONMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government Whether, having regard to the extra burden thrown upon the police forces and fire brigades, to the personal injuries caused and to the damage done to property, they will now take more effective steps, if necessary by legislation, to stop the letting-off of fire-works in streets and public places.]
EARL BATHURSTMy Lords, it is already an offence under Section 80 of the Explosives Act, 1875, if any person lets off a firework in a street or public place. I do not think there is a case for further legislation.
§ BARONESS RAVENSDALE of KEDLESTONMy Lords, may I ask this supplementary question: would this carnage and bedlam that occurs be reduced if the fines were increased?
EARL BATHURSTMy Lords, at present the maximum fine is £5, and it is not felt that, should these fines be increased, it would have any effect on the types of people who let off fireworks in public places; but the adequacy of this fine will be taken into account in the general review that is now taking place.
THE MARQUESS OF WILLINGDONMy Lords, could the Government give an assurance that this also applies to country areas, where to owners of livestock November 5 has become the most dreaded day in the year?
EARL BATHURSTMy Lords, I entirely agree with the noble Marquess 520 about the letting off of fireworks in country areas near to animals; and the same applies to pet animals in the towns. In country areas, however, most of the fireworks are let off near bonfires which are taking place on private land, and the noble Lady's Question applies only to streets and public places.