Fireworks Bill Dropped

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32077, 27 August 1969, Page 26

Fireworks Bill Dropped

(N Z. Press Association) WELLINGTON, Aug. 26. Parliament today rejected a bill introduced by the Government last year to restrict the sale of fireworks during the two weeks before November 5 and before January 1.

The Commerce Committee reported to the House that the two-clause Explosives Amendment Bill should not proceed. Its report was adopted without debate. The bill was introduced by the Minister of Internal Affairs (Mr Seath) after representations from private citizens and some organisations. The committee, winch had been considering the bill since last year’s session, decided it should not be allowed to proceed for the following reasons:

Adequate provision already existed for controlling the sale of fireworks in. the Explosives Act and the Police Offences Act;

Further restrictions could lead to an increase in home-made explosives, the cause at most accidents involving fireworks;

The four-week restricted sales period would not restrict the use of fireworks throughout th® year.

The chairman of the committee, M r H J. Walker (Nat., St Albans) told the House that slm was spent annually by New Zealanders on fireworks. When Mr Walker listed the groups and persons who made submissions to the committee —this included 10 private citizens, the Urban Fire Authorities Association, the manufacturers, merchants and retailers organisations, and the R.S.P.C.A.—a voice from the Opposition said: “Was Guy Fawkes there?" “No,” replied Mr Walker.

The Fire Authorities Association, representing 276 voluntary brigades, supported the bill and the manufacturers, merchants and retailers opposed it, he said. Mr Walker said the com-

nnttee hoped that in future parents who allowed their children to use fireworks were on hand to see they were aware of the dangers which could occur through the misuse of fireworks, and to ensure that their children were also aware of fire prevention.requirements.