13 December 2024

Statement on UK fireworks debate - December 2024

Responding to several online petitions, MPs from the UK Government debated the sale and use of fireworks in the UK on Monday 9th December.

In response to the debate, Redwings Campaigns and Policy Manager Helen Whitelegg said: “Redwings welcomed Monday’s debate and the widespread, cross-party support for tighter regulations around the sale and use of fireworks that was evident.

“It was encouraging to hear the Minister’s recognition of the serious and sometimes devastating impact of fireworks on people and animals and his willingness to continue constructive dialogue on the issue. However, we remain concerned about the emphasis on owners being responsible to reduce the impact of fireworks on animals when there is so little that can actually be done to prevent distress to horses - the few options available to owners are generally of limited benefit, impractical or both.

“Redwings’ recent snapshot survey indicated that more than 75% of owners already take what steps they can to protect horses from fireworks, yet 56% said that fireworks are frequently let off near their horse and almost half know that their horse has been affected by fireworks on at least one occasion. The data also suggests that stabled horses are as likely to become ill or injured as a result of fireworks being let off as those that are turned out.

“We also feel that while the term ‘misuse’ was often used during the debate, there is lack of clarity on what that means when fireworks that comply with current regulations can have such a distressing impact on equines and others. Stating that fireworks ‘should not be let off near horses’ is of little help without defining what ‘near’ means.

“Redwings looks forward to further engagement with parliamentarians to encourage a fresh approach and meaningful change around the use of fireworks. We hope Sarah Owen’s private members bill will keep this important issue on the political agenda with the second reading due to take place on 17th January. Sadly, further evidence of the need for change is also likely to be achieved through the unavoidable reality of additional distress and harm caused to horses and others over the approaching New Year.

“We encourage anyone whose horses are adversely affected by fireworks to log the incident through the BHS incident recording system on their website.”

To find out more about our campaigning work on fireworks and horses, please click here. You can also take a look at our action pack to find steps you can take on the issue.