Keetch to vote on Fireworks Bill

12.00.00am GMT Mon 24th Feb 2003

Paul Keetch is looking to increase the controls on firework sales.

Paul Keetch, Liberal Democrat MP for Hereford, will remain in London to vote on the second reading of Bill Tynan MP's Fireworks Bill on Friday 28th February.

The Bill, which hopes to increase controls on the use of fireworks, has been supported by a campaign of public letter-writing to MPs.

"Many constituents have contacted me in the past to air their views on fireworks and I have, of course, received a tremendous number of letters recently about the issue," Mr Keetch said.

"It shows that there are some really strong feelings about the use of fireworks. No one doubts that firm guidance on how and when they can be used is necessary, the number of injuries caused on 5th November each year is testament to that."

"The effect on animals can also be extremely serious and distressing. It is so important that fireworks are used safely and sensibly, and if this Bill can help achieve that then it is well worth supporting."