EURO MP Richard Howitt is calling for new laws aimed at reducing fireworks accidents. He is leading a campaign which is urging the European Parliament to adopt laws which would see all fireworks imported into the UK reach the highest possible standards.

EURO MP Richard Howitt is calling for new laws aimed at reducing fireworks accidents.

He is leading a campaign which is urging the European Parliament to adopt laws which would see all fireworks imported into the UK reach the highest possible standards.

"The UK has the highest accident rate in the EU, and malfunction of fireworks is often the cause," said Mr Howitt.

"Incorrect labelling, or labelling which is not in English, and poor quality misfiring rockets cannot be allowed to continue.

"Fireworks can be spectacular, but we need to take action to force manufacturers who want to have their fireworks sold in our shops to reach the highest possible standards."

Mr Howitt believes one of the most important changes will be the enforcing of standards on fireworks coming into the UK from outside the European Union.

Twenty people needed hospital treatment last year as a result of injuries from fireworks, and the number of people injured across the country was 1,141.

Mr Howitt said: "Importers of fireworks must face identical obligations to ensure compliance with safety requirements as those faced by manufacturers in Europe."

The European Parliament is soon to discuss whether new fireworks laws should be introduced.