On Monday 9 December, MPs will debate two petitions relating to the sale and use of fireworks.
- Watch the debate (from 4.30pm, Monday 9 December)
- Read the debate transcript (available shortly after the conclusion of the debate).
- Follow the Committee on X, formerly Twitter
Robbie Moore MP, a Member of the Petitions Committee, has been asked by the Committee to open the debate. MPs from all parties can take part, and the Government will send a minister to respond.
Ban the sale of fireworks to the general public
The petition, which has more than 50,000 signatures, states: "Purchasing and owning fireworks should not be allowed for the general public. The Government should introduce a law stating that fireworks should only be permitted for professional shows and events - this will mean they are handled safely, cleanly, and at predictable times."
In its response to the petition, provided on 1 November 2023, the Government said it: "has no plans to ban the sale of fireworks to the public but continues to monitor the situation. We believe the majority of individuals use fireworks safely and appropriately."
Limit the sale and use of Fireworks to licence holders only
The petition, which has more than 75,000 signatures, states: "Fireworks killed our mum, Josephine Smith. Her home was attacked using fireworks. We believe the use of fireworks after sale to the public cannot be policed.
We think all displays should be licensed and sales limited to licence holders only."
The Government will provide a response in due course.
What are petitions debates?
Petitions debates are 'general' debates which allow MPs from all parties to discuss the important issues raised by one or more petitions, and put their concerns to Government Ministers.
Petition debates don’t end with a vote to implement the request of a petition. This means MPs will not vote on the request of the petitions at the end of the debate. Instead, the aim is to give MPs an opportunity to discuss the issues raised by a petition, and get a response from the Government.
Petition debates are scheduled by the Petitions Committee. Only e-petitions started on the Parliament petitions site are considered by the Petitions Committee.
