After hearing the views of constituents, Theresa Villiers MP has decided to back a ban on single-use disposable barbecues.
These household items have become a source of increasing controversy as fears grow that they have been responsible for wildfires during this summer’s heatwave.
“It’s time to ban disposable barbecues,” Theresa said. “The evidence is becoming clear they pose a fire risk, especially where they are not used or disposed of responsibly.”
“I am also worried about the potential they have to cause injury. Two years ago, 11 year old Will Tyler suffered serious burns to his feet after treading on hot coals discarded from one of these barbecues on Formby Beach in Liverpool.”
“A third major problem with single-use barbecues is the fact that they are so often littered. This is contributing to the serious harm caused by litter to our local environment. I have spoken to a local farmer in my constituency who has pointed out that barbecues are regularly discarded on her land. I have campaigned against litter for some years and see this ban as a natural continuation of that.”
Theresa has promised to raise this issue with Ministers and seek a debate on this issue when Parliament returns in September.
The campaign to ban single-use disposable barbecues is backed by Keep Britain Tidy. You can find out more about their work in this area here.
Where disposable barbecues pose a significant local risk requiring immediate action, existing legislation can be used to restrict the use of disposable barbecues under byelaws. The New Forest and Peak District National Park authorities, for example, have banned the use of disposable barbecues within their boundaries.
The Home Office works in close partnership with local fire and rescue authorities to promote a range of fire safety messages through the national Fire Kills campaign. Messages on outdoor fire safety, including the fire risks related to barbecues, are included within the educational materials made available through the campaign to fire and rescue authorities to support local activity.
The Government is commissioning research to examine the role that disposable barbecues play in wildfire incidents. This research will also be used to examine other flammable items, such as sky lanterns and portable stoves, that also have the potential to cause significant damage.
