THIS newspaper has already stated clearly its backing for a restricted ban on fireworks. So, we sincerely hope that Bolton MP Dr Brian Iddon's Commons Motion receives cross-Party support.

While some regulations on fireworks have alrady been put in place, there is still need for more, especially with the spectre of both Bonfire Night '99 and Millennium celebrations ahead.

Firework safety is a matter for trained people and public displays, not drunken yobs in back-streets. And the sooner that the Government takes steps to back up Dr Iddon's plan with legislative muscle the better.

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