As the UK Parliament’s Petitions Committee launches an inquiry into fireworks law, NFU Scotland is asking members to input their experiences

NFU Scotland has produced a consultation for members on the issues they have faced in relation to the public’s use of fireworks and looks to identify any gaps or unintended consequences within the current regulatory framework.

The Petitions Committee today (Wednesday 27 February) launched an inquiry into fireworks law, including the case for a ban on public sale and use, and is an opportunity for farmers and crofters who have been affected by the public using fireworks to have their opinion heard.

This inquiry coincides with the Scottish Government gathering information on the subject to feed into the UK inquiry and guide devolved legislation on their use.  The sale of fireworks is governed on a UK basis but the use of them is a devolved issue.

Many Scottish farmers and crofters have suffered from the unintentional consequences of publicly used fireworks which include litter in fields and shed, fire hazards around straw and hay, and dangers to livestock who can be spooked and even injured by fireworks.  

Penny Middleton, NFU Scotland Animal Health and Welfare Manager, said: “This consultation is an opportunity for farmers and crofters who have been affected by the irresponsible use of fireworks to feed their experiences into us and hopefully see some real change in the legislation.

“Fireworks are associated with fun and celebrations so it can be easy to overlook the knock on affects they might have on others, but users of fireworks need to consider the consequences these fireworks can have on livestock, agricultural land and the surrounding environment, and ensure their enjoyment is not at the expense of anyone else.

“It is important for members to use this consultation to convey their views and highlight the issues they have been affected by, in order for NFU Scotland to properly represent them on these inquiries.”

Notes to Editor

• NFU Scotland’s ‘Consultation on Fireworks in Scotland: Your Experiences, Your Ideas, Your Views’ is open until 1 May 2019.
• Members can access the consultation by following https://www.nfus.org.uk/nfuscontent/consultations/17205/a-consultation-on-fireworks-in-scotland-your-experiences-your-ideas-your-views
  

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Contact Douglas Ross on 0131 472 4059