BATLEY and Spen MP Mike Wood has welcomed new legislation to tackle the dangers and problems caused by fireworks.
The Fireworks Act has received Royal Assent after getting Government and cross-party support in both houses of Parliament.
Mr Wood presented petitions containing thousands of signatures from Batley and Spen to 10 Downing Street last year as part of a national campaign by MPs to secure tougher restrictions.
Mr Wood said: "The irresponsible sale and use of fireworks which terrify people and pets alike will be stopped while ensuring families can continue to enjoy organised public firework displays.
"The misery caused by the misuse of fireworks is a growing problem in Batley and Spen. Lack of licensing of retail outlets, periods of sale and noise levels, together with problems with importation, distribution and storage, all contribute to the problem.
He added: "This Act will promote the responsible use of fireworks by limiting the hours of the day, confining general sale to the public to a relatively short period before November 5 while the introduction of a two-tier licensing system would recognise the need for fireworks to be available under strict conditions throughout the year to accommodate the range of cultural and religious festivities such as weddings and the Chinese New Year.
"This law is not about spoiling people's fun; it is about promoting opportunities for the responsible and safe use of fireworks.
"Far from dampening people's enjoyment of fireworks used in a responsible way I am confident that this Act will be welcomed by the many constituents who have been in correspondence with me about this matter whilst ensuring our organised displays continue to go off with a well controlled bang."
Late night bangs will be banished under the Act which also bans the noisiest fireworks. Year round sale of fireworks will be restricted and stricter rules on training for those who hold professional displays will be introduced.
Youths will no longer be able to buy fireworks and the legislation imposes restrictions on imports.
Local authorities will be able to refuse and revoke licences of irresponsible retailers and the Bill includes measures to reduce accidents, noise and nuisance.
Although the regulations are unlikely to be ready this year, the Department for Trade and Industry will be responsible for developing them and they are due to emerge over the next year.
Despite a fall in firework related injuries last year, more than 1,000 people ended up in hospital as a result of bonfire night accidents.
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