HC Deb 11 November 1936 vol 317 cc856-7
39. Mr. SANDYS

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether his attention has been drawn to the danger and nuisance caused by aeroplanes with advertisement streamers flying over the crowds assembled to witness the Lord Mayor of London's procession on 9th November; and whether he will take steps to restrict such flights over large cities?

Sir P. SASSOON

I am not aware that there was any dangerous or otherwise illegal flying on the occasion mentioned, but I would remind my hon. Friend that the enforcement of the regulations governing flying over London is a matter for the police. As regards the last part of the question, the regulations already prohibit flights over towns except at such altititude as will enable the aircraft to land outside in the event of mechanical breakdown.

Mr. SANDYS

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the success of this kind of advertisement depends on the aeroplane making sufficient noise to make people look up in the air, and does he not consider that that constitutes an unjustifiable nuisance?

Sir P. SASSOON

An aeroplane which is not flying at a low altitude still might make a certain amount of noise.

Mr. LEWIS

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, in fact, his noble Friend has power to prevent the use of these advertisement streamers altogether if he wishes to do so?

Sir P. SASSOON

No, Sir, we have only power to make regulations for safety.