§ Mr. Murphyasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what consideration the Government are giving to a review of fireworks controls; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FletcherIt is the Government's intention to revise the legislation so that magistrates can impose heavier penalties for selling fireworks to young people under 16 and for letting them off in a public place. As things stand I am not convinced of the need for further controls but I will keep the situation under review.
§ Mrs. Peacockasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if Her Majesty's Government have any plans to prohibit the sale of fireworks to the general public.
§ Mr. FletcherFamily firework parties are a traditional British institution enjoyed by millions, and as things stand I am not prepared to deny people this pleasure because of abuse or carelessness by a few.. However I will keep this situation under review.