I have had an increase in correspondence from Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton constituents recently regarding fireworks being set off after 11pm outside of permitted firework hours. This type of regular anti-social behaviour should not be tolerated. Fireworks can be disruptive, a nuisance and harmful to many vulnerable people.
As you would expect, I am in regular contact with Oldham Council and Greater Manchester Police about this. I am confident that they are each doing all they can, despite successive cuts by the previous government, to address incidents, including by enhanced licensing checks and monitoring of popular hotspots.
Even if new, tougher, laws were implemented; without the resources to tackle the problem, including closing down illicit sales of fireworks, these laws would not be sufficient – resources to make them workable are required too.
In last months King’s Speech, the government proposed a Crime and Policing Bill so we can rebuild community policing and crack down on anti-social behaviour with new Respect Orders; and a Victims, Courts and Public Protection Bill too, ensuring victims get the support they deserve.
Tackling anti-social behaviour in this way is how Labour is creating a safe place – a priority of mine at the election – on the high streets and in the neighbourhoods which make up our local communities.
I will continue to monitor developments. Constituents should continue to report instances and I encourage local people to raise concerns with my office if necessary at jim.mcmahon.mp@parliament.uk.
Remember, all of us just want to live in a nice area and get on with our lives without major disturbances. To those involved: setting fireworks off at such times does not need to be done. Please think of your neighbours, of their families, and of those working unusual shift patterns.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 