Aerial shell firework ban-why are enthusiasts not allowed to use them?

[TVFan]

I have used display aerial shell fireworks for many years up to the ban on retail sale/public use and and shift to Category 4 professional fireworks status in the mid 90's, BUT they were going to allow some leeway in the law to continue to allow, (under certain controls), enthusiasts like myself to carry on using them but this was effectively scuppered with a total no exceptions blanket ban on the retail sale and/or private use of aerial shell fireworks. Why the change of policy? I know they are dangerous and up to the sales ban have used aerial shells sensibly by taking suitable safety precautions;but the Govt reneged on the controls to allow fireworks enthusiasts to carry on using them.

[divegirl]

Surely if you that intent on using them you could obtain a license! Why the change of policy? Two words....public safety! Can I suggest you go and get a job within the industry if you need to be near them so much because as a member of the general public the less 'firework enthusiasts' around the better! They are a dangerous noise polluting hazzard as far as I'm concerned, and the less seen and heard of them the better!

[TVFan]

No divegirl, you are wrong! The govt refused to allow enthusiasts to use aerial shell fireworks because it was felt that EVEN they couldn't be trusted to use them properly and safely! I DO display regularly and safely using Category 2 garden retail fireworks requiring a spectator distance of 5m and Category 3 display retail fireworks requiring a spectator distance of 25m. I feel a sales ban will lead to illegal underground blackmarket trade sale and use of lethal deadly dangerous dubious import fireworks of poor quality safety construction and performance;I'll carry on doing it using Cat2 and Cat3 retail garden and display fireworks (which you don't need to be trained or licenced to use!)

[TVFan]

Also divegirl, NOT even a licence or training will allow you to use aerial shell fireworks, the law DOESN'T allow that!

[divegirl]

AlI I am saying is that these fireworks DO need heavy legislation...they are a danger. Don't get me wrong I love a good firework display. If you feel that the banned shells can be used safely then the only way forward [unfortunately for you] is to lobby your local MP.

Good luck

Lisa x