Firework-related Injuries

HC Deb 01 April 1993 vol 222 cc404-5W

Mr. Moss

To ask the President of the Board of Trade how many firework-related injuries were referred to hospitals in 1992.

Mr. Leigh

According to reports from accident and emergency units in hospitals in England, Wales and Scotland, 942 people required treatment for injuries caused by fireworks, an increase of 13.25 per cent. over the annual average of 830 injuries since the end of 1987. A breakdown of the figures for 1992 and for the previous four years by region, type of injury and kind of firework involved is being placed today in the Libraries of both Houses of Parliament. My Department will be discussing with the industry what further steps are to be taken to encourage safer use of fireworks in the future.