Local MSP for the Linlithgow Constituency, Fiona Hyslop, has voted in favour of the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill at Stage 3 when it was debated in the Scottish Parliament on June 29th.
The new legislation will introduce mandatory safety training for people who wish to purchase and use fireworks. It also introduces powers for local authorities to introduce designated firework control zones, restrictions of the supply and use of fireworks and a new offence to criminalise the supply of fireworks to under-18s.
Fiona has previously met with local Constituency group, Blackburn Bonfire Night Action Group (BBNAG) who provided evidence to the Criminal Justice Committee in relation to their innovative approach to tackling the misuse of fireworks when the committee visited Blackburn earlier in the year.
Commenting Fiona said;
“I am very pleased to see this new legislation introduced as this will improve safety around the use of fireworks for people across Scotland.
“This is not a ban and people will still be able to enjoy fireworks in a more safe, predictable and controlled manner.
“I was pleased to meet with the Blackburn Bonfire Night Action Group in the Scottish Parliament earlier this year and would like to thank them again for their contribution to the Criminal Justice Committee on this issue.
“This Bill is an important step in improving safety for communities across Scotland and I am proud of the involvement of the Blackburn Bonfire Night Action Group from my Constituency.”
ENDS