§ Paddy TippingTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations she has received during the last three months about the nuisance caused by fireworks; what steps she is taking to evaluate the extent of the nuisance; and when she will bring forward further controls on the sale and use of fireworks. [83046]
§ Miss Melanie Johnson[holding answer 27 November 2002]We have received significant representations during the last three months about firework nuisance and the situation is being monitored.
In relation to the introduction of further controls on the sale and use of fireworks, I refer my hon. Friend to an answer I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Preston (Mr. Hendrick) on 17 October 2002, Official Report, columns 889–90 announcing a package of measures to address problems caused by fireworks.
§ Mr. WalterTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps she is taking to improve firework safety, with particular reference to the hazards of falling debris from display fireworks. [83400]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonThe weight of falling debris is specified in British Standard 7114 for certain types of firework. Steps are being taken to ensure that this is carried through to the forthcoming European standards for fireworks.
§ Miss McIntoshTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what recent discussions she has had with the fireworks manufacturers and vendors concerning the use and availability of fireworks; and if she will make a statement. [83534]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonI have had recent discussions with representatives of the British Fireworks Association prior to my announcement on the 515W 17 October 2002, Official Report, columns 889–90 of a package of measures to cut the number of firework accidents as well as noise and nuisance.
Prior to this year's Guy Fawkes night, the Department wrote to major retailers and representative bodies to urge compliance with the voluntary sales period.