Time to Turn the Volume Down on Fireworks

Bonfire Night is a highlight in the calendar for many families, but it can be a deeply distressing time for animals and some people in our community. Each year, thousands of pets and wild animals are affected by the sudden noise of fireworks, and the RSPCA has received more than 15,000 reports of animals negatively impacted over the last five years.

Public concern is clear: 81% of people back firework control zones, and over 90% support quieter alternatives such as drone or laser displays.

I share those concerns and agree that more can be done to reduce unnecessary distress. The Liberal Democrats are open to introducing a limit on the maximum noise level of fireworks sold to the public for private use. This would help protect animals and those struggling with mental health issues, particularly veterans and others living with PTSD, without removing the joy of celebration entirely.

We support the existing measures that minimise disruption but don’t believe further restrictions on the sale or use of fireworks are the best route forward. Instead, we need sensible, proportionate solutions, encouraging quieter, community-based displays and responsible ownership from both pet owners and those setting off fireworks.