By Labour Home | 16 July 2026
Labour MPs have welcomed the Government’s announcement of new rules to ban nuisance fireworks, describing the move as a major victory for years of campaigning to tackle antisocial behaviour and protect communities across the country.
Among those celebrating the announcement was Andrew Pakes MP (Peterborough), who paid tribute to fellow Labour MPs who have led the campaign for stronger action.
In a post on social media, he said:
“Welcome news on today’s new rules to ban nuisance fireworks. Thanks to @Kate_Dearden for getting it through.
This has been a long time coming so a special shout out to @JudithCummins as well who has been fighting for this for years.”
The announcement marks the culmination of sustained efforts by Labour parliamentarians to address the growing problem of fireworks being used irresponsibly throughout the year, causing distress to residents, pets, livestock and vulnerable people.
Years of Labour campaigning
Consumer Protection Minister Kate Dearden MP has been praised for helping deliver the new measures, while Judith Cummins MP has spent years campaigning for tighter controls on nuisance fireworks.
Cummins has consistently raised concerns about the impact of fireworks on local communities, calling for stronger regulation, lower noise limits, tougher controls on sales and greater enforcement powers for local authorities. She has previously described nuisance fireworks as a “round-the-clock blight” on neighbourhoods and has repeatedly pressed ministers to act.
Andrew Pakes has also championed the issue both in Parliament and in Peterborough, highlighting the disruption caused by fireworks outside traditional celebrations and supporting modern alternatives, including quieter displays where appropriate.
Protecting communities
The issue has become an increasing concern for communities across the UK, with reports of fireworks being set off late at night and throughout the year.
Campaigners have long argued that irresponsible use causes significant distress to:
- pets and livestock;
- autistic and neurodivergent people;
- military veterans living with PTSD;
- young children and older residents; and
- families whose sleep and quality of life are regularly disrupted.
Animal welfare organisations, veterans’ groups and local campaigners have all backed stronger regulation, arguing that organised public displays can continue while tackling antisocial misuse.
Delivering on Labour’s commitment
The announcement also reflects Labour’s wider commitment to tackling antisocial behaviour and making neighbourhoods safer.
For campaigners who have spent years pressing for reform, today’s announcement represents a significant milestone.
As Andrew Pakes acknowledged, it has been “a long time coming”—and campaigners will now be looking to ensure the new rules are implemented effectively so communities across Britain can enjoy greater peace of mind.
