Livingston constituency fireworks campaign calls for crackdown on sales
A major local fireworks survey by Gregor Poynton MP has found overwhelming support for tougher restrictions on fireworks, with almost 95% of respondents backing tighter controls on sales and a similar proportion wanting supermarkets to stop selling them.
The consolidated survey results bring together responses from two separate routes, producing 828 unique email-address records after duplicates were removed.
The findings provide a substantial body of feedback for Gregor to present to the UK Labour Government as ministers consider the future of fireworks regulation.
The results show:
- 95% support tighter controls on fireworks sales, with 785 of 828 respondents answering yes.
- 95% want supermarkets to stop selling fireworks, with 784 respondents supporting the proposal.
- 87% support local Firework Control Zones, with 723 respondents backing the proposal.
- 70% want further changes to fireworks rules, with 583 respondents answering yes.
The response makes this one of Gregor's biggest local campaign surveys to date and reinforces his calls for stronger action to address the disruption caused by fireworks in communities across West Lothian.
Gregor has campaigned for tighter fireworks controls since his election, including calling for Firework Control Zones across West Lothian and writing to major supermarkets urging them to withdraw fireworks from sale ahead of Bonfire Night.
The latest survey generated 524 written comments, providing further insight into why respondents want change.
Many called for fireworks to be restricted to organised displays run by licensed or qualified operators. Others proposed quieter or silent fireworks, limits on the dates and times fireworks can be used, and stronger enforcement against illegal sales and anti-social behaviour.
Animal welfare was another recurring concern, alongside the impact of unpredictable fireworks on children, people with sensory sensitivities and those affected by anxiety or PTSD.
Respondents also described the disruption caused by fireworks being set off late at night and weeks before Bonfire Night, calling for clearer rules that protect communities while allowing people to enjoy organised celebrations.
Gregor Poynton MP said: “The response to this survey is significant, and the message from those who took part is clear. People want stronger action on fireworks, particularly how they are sold and the disruption caused by their irresponsible use.
“I recognise that fireworks are an important part of celebrations for many people. But we need a better balance between allowing people to enjoy organised displays and protecting those who experience real distress from excessive noise and irresponsible use.
“I have continued to press for stronger controls, including Firework Control Zones across West Lothian and action to limit the availability of fireworks to the general public.
“The UK Labour Government's consultation has now closed, and I will be sharing these findings with the Minister responsible for product safety. I want the strength of feeling expressed through this survey to be considered as the Government decides what action to take next.
Gregor will submit the consolidated findings to the UK Government, urging ministers to take the feedback into account as they develop their response and consider further action.