Epping Forest MP, Dr Neil Hudson, has spoken out in a House of Commons debate on the sale of fireworks, calling for stronger legislation to address the ongoing risks fireworks pose to animals and people.
Dr Hudson has previously hosted the Fireworks Impact Coalition in Parliament to promote its campaign for an urgent review of fireworks legislation, aimed at protecting people and animals from the physical and mental harms associated with fireworks. He has long supported calls to reform existing legislation so that clearer limits are placed on when and where fireworks can be used, helping to reduce the distress caused by the unpredictable and loud nature of fireworks.
As the first veterinary surgeon to be elected as a Member of Parliament since 1884, Dr Hudson has been a consistent supporter of strengthening fireworks legislation. He previously spoke in support of Sarah Owen MP’s Fireworks Bill, which is currently proceeding through the House of Commons. The Bill would prohibit the public sale of fireworks deemed ‘low-to-medium hazard’ and ‘medium hazard’ under the Firework Regulations 2004, reduce the maximum noise limit to 90 decibels, and restrict the sale of fireworks to licensed retailers only.
Evidence from Redwings Horse Sanctuary, which runs the Ada Cole Stables in Nazeing, underlines the urgency of reform. A survey conducted in January 2025 found that over two-thirds of respondents had first-hand experience of distressing, and in some cases, tragic incidents caused by fireworks being let off close to horses in their care. There was strong support among respondents for improved regulation.
This campaign is backed by substantial public support. A recent YouGov survey on behalf of Dogs Trust found that 65% of people believe there should be more regulation around the use of fireworks. Of those surveyed, 94% support restrictions on the dates and times when fireworks can be used, 89% support limiting fireworks to public displays, and 77% support allowing only low-noise fireworks in both private and public displays.
Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Epping Forest, said:
“I thank the Redwings Charity, with their Ada Cole Stables here in Epping Forest, for raising the petition on fireworks that triggered the Debate in the House of Commons.”
“Fireworks can cause real fear, injury and trauma for animals, both large and small, as well as distress for many people.
“As a veterinary surgeon, I have seen the devastating consequences first-hand. The level of public support for reform is overwhelming. I will continue to press the Government to strengthen fireworks legislation so that we can enjoy safe firework displays and better protect animal welfare and keep our communities safe.”
