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05/11/2003
Measures to crack down on firework yobs unveiled
Measures aimed at cracking down on the misuse of fireworks have been unveiled by the government today.
To tackle the anti-social use of fireworks by teenagers, and the problems of noise and nuisance, the government announced that before Christmas the possession of fireworks by under-18s in public places will be made illegal. There will be fixed penalties of up to £80 for people caught throwing fireworks in the street, and the possession of the largest, most powerful, 'category 4' fireworks will also be outlawed for all members of the public.
The government has said that it will also draft regulations before the end of the year to enshrine in law the firework industry's current voluntary ban on airbombs.
The government has already begun preliminary consultations on implementing the rest of the Fireworks Act and will publish draft regulations in the New Year to introduce a national curfew banning the use of fireworks during anti-social hours. A new licensing system for the sale of fireworks to ensure local authorities have the power to refuse and revoke licenses if retailers act inappropriately will also be introduced.
Trade Secretary Patricia Hewitt said: "In the right place and the right time fireworks are a real source of pleasure and we want families to enjoy the safe use of fireworks in their gardens and in public displays.
"But people across the UK are sick of being terrorised by irresponsible use of fireworks. We want to drive the fireworks thugs off the street and will use the full force of law to tackle those who are making the lives of others a misery in this way.
The full raft of measures should be in place by July 2004 – in advance of next year's fireworks season.
(gmcg)
To tackle the anti-social use of fireworks by teenagers, and the problems of noise and nuisance, the government announced that before Christmas the possession of fireworks by under-18s in public places will be made illegal. There will be fixed penalties of up to £80 for people caught throwing fireworks in the street, and the possession of the largest, most powerful, 'category 4' fireworks will also be outlawed for all members of the public.
The government has said that it will also draft regulations before the end of the year to enshrine in law the firework industry's current voluntary ban on airbombs.
The government has already begun preliminary consultations on implementing the rest of the Fireworks Act and will publish draft regulations in the New Year to introduce a national curfew banning the use of fireworks during anti-social hours. A new licensing system for the sale of fireworks to ensure local authorities have the power to refuse and revoke licenses if retailers act inappropriately will also be introduced.
Trade Secretary Patricia Hewitt said: "In the right place and the right time fireworks are a real source of pleasure and we want families to enjoy the safe use of fireworks in their gardens and in public displays.
"But people across the UK are sick of being terrorised by irresponsible use of fireworks. We want to drive the fireworks thugs off the street and will use the full force of law to tackle those who are making the lives of others a misery in this way.
The full raft of measures should be in place by July 2004 – in advance of next year's fireworks season.
(gmcg)
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Three 12-Year-Old Boys Seriously Injured By Firework
An investigation has been launched after three 12-year-old boys were injured by a firework in St Helens on Friday, 30 October. One of the boys suffered minor burns to his hands and face, another substantial burns to his stomach and face and the third substantial burns to his hand and a fractured hand. All were treated in hospital, where two remain.
13 June 2003
Accidents at firework displays cut by a quarter
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23 April 2004
Curfew plans set to criminalise firework use after 11pm
The government has continued its crusade against so-called anti-social behaviour today, by announcing plans for an 11pm curfew on the use of fireworks which, if breached, could see offenders fined £5,000 or jailed for up to six months.
Curfew plans set to criminalise firework use after 11pm
The government has continued its crusade against so-called anti-social behaviour today, by announcing plans for an 11pm curfew on the use of fireworks which, if breached, could see offenders fined £5,000 or jailed for up to six months.
20 June 2005
Government launches consultation on smoking proposals
The government is to begin consultation on proposals to ban smoking in most public places in England. The government hopes that the consultation will lead to a Bill being introduced in the autumn. The ‘Choosing Health’ Public Health White Paper published last November, unveiled proposals to ban smoking in all enclosed public spaces and workplaces.
Government launches consultation on smoking proposals
The government is to begin consultation on proposals to ban smoking in most public places in England. The government hopes that the consultation will lead to a Bill being introduced in the autumn. The ‘Choosing Health’ Public Health White Paper published last November, unveiled proposals to ban smoking in all enclosed public spaces and workplaces.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
