Veterans organisations have been specifically invited to respond to a government consultation on reforming fireworks legislation, which ministers say has prompted ongoing engagement across departments, according to an answer given in Parliament.
Susan Murray, the Liberal Democrat member for Mid Dunbartonshire, asked what discussions had taken place with the Business Secretary on the impact of the proposals on veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder, referring to the consultation on fireworks and pyrotechnics published on 16 July.
Calvin Bailey, Parliamentary Under-Secretary and Minister for Veterans and People, said: “The government is fully committed to renewing the nation’s contract with those who serve and who have served, to ensure veterans and their families get access to the support they deserve.
“For veterans facing challenges with their mental health or those living with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, NHS England delivers Op COURAGE, a fully integrated, specialist mental health service for veterans, which has received over 35,000 referrals. The government has also launched a new programme to deliver dedicated training for NHS staff to help them identify and support patients with a military background, to ensure that the support offered is comprehensive, appropriate and meets the particular needs of veterans.
“The Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade’s public consultation on proposed reforms to fireworks legislation will remain open until Wednesday 7 October 2026 and has particularly requested the views of veterans’ organisations. Engagement is ongoing.”
Fireworks in England and Wales are governed by the Fireworks Act 2003 and the Fireworks Regulations 2004, which set an 11pm curfew with later cut-offs on Bonfire Night, New Year, Diwali and Chinese New Year, and limit what the public may buy. Campaigners including veterans’ charities have pressed for tighter noise limits and for sales to be restricted to organised displays, arguing that unannounced explosions through October and November are the problem for people with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Op COURAGE was launched by NHS England in 2021, bringing three separate veteran mental health services into a single referral pathway covering assessment, treatment for complex cases and support with housing, employment and substance misuse.
I would lower the time cut off from 11pm to 10 pm, except for the week before/after bonfire night, and New Year’s Eve. Also wedding venues having fireworks many times a year should need a licence, only granted if there are no near neighbours.