SNP extinguishes plans for new firework licence scheme

SNP ministers have dropped plans for a fireworks licensing scheme, despite fears of a repeat of Bonfire Night mayhem.

- By Ben Borland

The new law was hailed as “historic” and “groundbreaking” when it was promised three years ago.

It would have required people to obtain a permit in order to buy pyrotechnics in Scotland.

Ministers have also confirmed they will now “not progress” with restrictions on the days of the year when fireworks can be bought.

Critics yesterday described the climbdown as a “complete betrayal” of besieged communities.

Scottish Labour justice spokeswoman Pauline McNeill said: “It shows the SNP has no idea what it is doing. They have made a mockery of the Scottish Parliament by asking all parties to vote for a scheme they had no idea how to implement.

“This is yet another SNP promise that has been quietly dumped — but not before wasting time and public money on a damp squib.”