The government announces plans to reduce the noise produced by fireworks sold to the general public. According to reporting, ministers are seeking to lower the decibel level of fireworks by about 50%, which would translate into quieter “rockets” and other items. The proposal includes restricting access so that members of the public would not be able to buy the noisier fireworks currently available. The initiative is presented as part of efforts to manage nuisance noise associated with fireworks, while still allowing access to lower-decibel products. The coverage also frames the move as reflecting Labour’s position on the issue, referring to calls to ban the loudest fireworks from shop shelves. The articles do not provide additional technical detail beyond the stated reduction target and the intention to prohibit the sale of higher-noise fireworks to the public. The government’s announcement indicates the policy is under consideration and would involve changing what retailers can sell.