EU bans traditional fireworks to mark Remembrance day for Britain’s war dead in ‘health and safety’ row

AN ARMISTICE Day firework salute has been scrapped because of EU safety rules.

The maroon rocket has been fired for years to signal a city’s two-minute silence.

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But a new EU directive means whoever sets off “high-hazard” fireworks must be trained by suppliers.

Firms have stopped stocking them because of costs.

The November 11 silence in Peterborough will now be signalled by a simple whistle.

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Councillor Graham Casey said: “It’s mad. The EU should remember that freedom in Europe exists as a result of people who gave their lives in the wars.”

Maroons produce a loud bang and bright flash and were once used to summon crews to lifeboats.

Last year the £38 rocket was fired by council staff.

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A city spokeswoman said: “The EU requires we must have training.”

Suppliers Star Fireworks used to sell maroons for council remembrance events all over Britain.

Director Andy Hubble said: “The EU directive is a great shame. I hope after Brexit the Government can look at this.”