Calls for flares to be banned from music festivals
We've been getting your thoughts as the MP for Selby again calls for tougher controls.
You've been telling us you'd be in favour of a ban on flares at places like gigs and music festivals.
Increasing numbers of fans have been seriously injured by flares, fireworks and smoke bombs at numerous public events in recent years.
The MP for Selby has again called on the government to do more to tackle the problem. Nigel Adams thinks like at football matches, people should be banned from taking them in such venues.
Mr Adams raised the issue in the House of Commons yesterday afternoon.
Speaking previously in the House of Commons, Nigel Adams said:
“Music audiences deserve the same protection under the law as sports fans. This measure has support across the board: from fans wanting to focus on the music, performers wanting to put on a good uninterrupted show, and organisers wanting to provide a safe event – as well as from MPs right across the House. It’s time we make the law on these dangerous articles consistent at both music and sporting events.”
Many in the music industry have offered their enthusiastic endorsement.
Melvin Benn, of Festival Republic, added:
“As much as you try to stop them coming in, without the legislation you just don’t have the power.”
Rob da Bank, of Bestival, said:
"Bestival strongly supports the Government taking action against the use of flares and fireworks at festivals . As the promoters of a 50, 000 capacity festival, audience safety is always at the forefront of event planning and we would like to see our fans offered the same protection as those attending sporting events. There are increasingly more incidents and the time is right for the Government to act and support organisers in minimising risk and providing a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone attending.”