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Good morning. A recurring area of my questions to the witnesses who have appeared before the committee has been the possible use of silent or low-noise fireworks. Have you explored that area, in particular with regard to the nuisance aspect of fireworks?

We have touched on the impact that fireworks have on animals and on people with neurodiversity issues. Silent or low-noise fireworks would go some way towards mitigating that. Is it possible for something to be implemented in that regard? How would that work?

In addition, I would like to know more about cost. If you were to reduce the cost of a licence for low-noise fireworks, would that be an incentive for people to purchase those rather than fireworks from among the categories that are listed in our papers?

That is welcome. It will be good news for my dog; I will be sure to let her know.

Norman, how does the cost of low-noise fireworks compare with the cost of high-noise fireworks?

Have they become more popular? What is the demand for low-noise fireworks? How does that affect your stock?

Good morning. The bill will introduce various restrictions on the days and times when fireworks can be sold and used. What are the witnesses’ views on those proposals? Do they strike the right balance between allowing people to enjoy fireworks at appropriate times for various celebrations and, arguably, reducing the misuse of fireworks?

In relation to production, I do not know how to make a firework or what is involved in that, but is there any way in which there could be a time or date on it? Is there nothing that you could do?

My question is more to do with the point that Rona Mackay touched on about silent fireworks. I have sought views on the matter from the working group members and the people who have come to the committee. Today, we have heard that there is no such thing as silent fireworks, but there are low-noise fireworks. When I shared the consultation on my Facebook page, a lot of folk said, “Could we not just have silent or low-noise fireworks?” Norman Donald talked about the impact of restricted days on his business. If we were to bring in low-noise fireworks, would that answer many of the concerns that folk are raising—in particular, to do with the impact of noise on dogs and other animals and in relation to sensory issues for people with autism?

Okay. Could Fraser Stevenson or Andy Hubble comment on the impact the restrictions would have on retailers? Do they have any evidence to suggest that restricting the sale of fireworks would have a huge impact and that it would lead to more sales online and through the black market?

Have you any idea of the size of the black market? I know that Russell Findlay asked you that question, but I am keen to know, even in terms of trading standards, how big the black market is.

In relation to the restrictions, I am just wondering what options are available to prevent people stockpiling.

Does Andy Hubble want to come in on my question about getting the right balance?