Fireworks Misuse Subject Of Inquiry

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30760, 26 May 1965, Page 17

Fireworks Misuse Subject Of Inquiry

IN.Z. Press Association —Copi/righu

SYDNEY, May 25.

The Minister for Mines (Mr T. L. Lewis) has ordered an inquiry into the misuse of fireworks during last night’s Commonwealth Day celebrations.

Mr Lewis said he had established a small committee under the chairmanship of the Under-Secretary for Mines (Mr Slater) to investigate and report to him.

“This may take a little time, as the police and fire brigades will give reports to the committee," Mr Lewis said. “I am alarmed by the widespread mishandling and misuse of fireworks, and may

have to consider imposing some form of ban.

"However, it is too early to come to a conclusion. But it is clear that what used

to be fun for the kids has become a time of because a minority of hoodlums, operating over a wide area, are misusing fireworks.”

I The Chief Secretary (Mr ■ Willis) has also called for a > report on the extent of van- - daiism and injuries to per- ■ sons during the celebrations. He said he would see what

might be necessary to bring the mishandling of fireworks under control. A pall of smog hung over Sydney early today after one of the noisiest nights Sydney has known.

The smoke haze from hundreds of bonfires, combined

with a light fog, reduced visibility on many main roads. Early-morning traffic was

slowed to half its normal speed, and many motorists switched their lights to high beam in the denser patches of smog.