HC Deb 24 July 1929 vol 230 cc1289-90
55. Mr. MELLER

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether his attention has been called to the increased noise in the neighbourhood of the Waddon aerodrome occasioned by the low flying and noisy exhausts of the aeroplanes and to the increasing disturbance caused by week-end low flying; and whether he can take steps to reduce the nuisance for those who live in the vicinity of the aerodrome?

Mr. MONTAGUE

Complaints have been received from, time to time, but some increase of noise is the inevitable consequence of the increase of traffic to and from this very busy air port. In so far as it is due to the two causes mentioned by the hon. Member, I may say that experiments are being made with a view to the reduction of the noise of engine exhausts, and that dangerously low flying over houses renders a pilot liable to prosecution by the police. I am afraid that it is difficult to do more to meet the hon. Member's object, but I am open to receive any practical suggestions.

Mr. MELLER

Will the hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of introducing legislation to deal with the matter, and, in the meantime, will he use his personal influence with the authorities to mitigate the nuisance, which is having a great effect on the health of the adults and of the children of the district?

Mr. MONTAGUE

As much as can possibly be done is done to mitigate the nuisance.