UK to ban fireworks, flares, at music events?

The UK could end up banning fireworks, flares and smoke bombs at concerts and festivals, similar to sports events.

Tory MP Nigel Adams says that these are increasingly becoming common occurrences at music events, and create serious safety issues.

Yesterday he introduced the Events and Festivals (Control of Flares, Fireworks and Smoke Bombs Etc) Bill in the House of Commons.

Adams, who is Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Music, said, “Many people I talk to are stunned to find out that carrying and deploying flares and fireworks in the crowd at a live music event is not banned – unlike at football matches, where spectators can count on the protection of the law.”

He said the Bill had the support of other MPs, as well as music fans, performers and promoters who just wanted to see a show without any distractions.

In January 2015, tour promoter Live Nation’s legal team sent letters to British MPs asking them to introduce restrictions on incendiaries at music events. The letter noted, “We have noticed a concerning trend regarding a rise in the use of flares, fireworks and smoke bombs at events which we are concerned is jeopardising the safety of our customers and employees,”

The Bill will not stop bands or promoters using pyrotechnics as part of their show.

According to Adams, in 2014 there were 255 flare/ fireworks incidents at music events but only three at football grounds. Flares are not covered by firework regulations because they are not designed for entertainment.

It is a criminal offence for UK sports fans to carry or set off flares at a game in a public place. Those aged over 18 can face up to three months in prison, while minors can be fined up to £80 (A$150).

But rules for music events are not as clear, because most festivals are held on private property. If someone over 18 is caught with them at a music event, it has to be proved they intended to cause harm.