§ Mr. John Ellisasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection if he will call for a report from the chief officer of police on action taken to prevent the sale of explosive novelties to children of all ages, which were imported from Brazil.
§ Mr. John FraserThese explosive novelties are classified as "shop goods fireworks" under the Explosives Act 1875. Consequently under that Act, as amended by the Explosives (Age of Purchase, etc.) Act 1976, it is an offence to sell them to persons under 16. Action has been taken by my Department to ensure that those858W who import and sell these fireworks are aware of this prohibition and the Health and Safety Executive has required, as a condition of importation, that it is indicated on each box in which they are sold. I am not aware of any reason why a report should be sought from the chief constable of Humberside.