South West Bedfordshire MP, Andrew Selous, raised the mostly tragic case of a horse which had to be put down as a result of a very loud firework display in Eaton Bray, over New Year in the House of Commons last Thursday.
The exchange in Hansard was as follows,
“Andrew Selous (South West Bedfordshire) (Con)
New year’s fireworks celebrations caused the deaths of two horses this year—one in my constituency. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 is very difficult to enforce. May I meet the animal welfare Minister to look at this issue? The numbers are astounding. No fireworks display is ever worth the death of a much-loved family pet or animal.
Dr Coffey (DEFRA Secretary of State)
I am conscious of the impact fireworks can have on animals. I will share my hon. Friend’s concerns with my noble Friend Lord Benyon, who covers this area, and I expect Lord Benyon will meet with him.”
My question on the impact of fireworks on animals and pets - YouTube
Speaking afterwards, Andrew said “No firework display is ever worth causing the death of any animal, especially a much loved one. I certainly don’t want to stop all firework displays, but very loud ones which can cause the death of animals do need to be properly regulated, which is why I will be meeting the Minister to see how the enforcement of the animal welfare act can be made to work properly.“