Conclusion 1

We have listened carefully to concerns about banning public sales and use of fireworks. There are valid concerns about the likely effects on community groups and their local fund-raising efforts. For some groups, for example in Sussex, community- run, non-professional displays form an important part of an area’s unique culture and identity. There are also genuine concerns about the likely ineffectiveness of a ban, including some evidence from overseas that a ban could have unintended and counter-productive consequences for public safety. A ban on public sales would have a substantial economic effect, which would be most keenly felt by people who have built their livelihoods on the fireworks industry.