HC Deb 29 June 1953 vol 517 c4
4. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Supply, in view of the rapid progress which is being made with the development of aeroplanes to fly at supersonic speed, what steps he proposes to take to avoid, so far as possible, damage to persons and buildings from machines flying at high speeds at low altitudes.

Mr. Sandys

It will be many years before aircraft will be able to fly at supersonic speeds at low altitudes.

Mr. Janner

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a number of scientists think his reply is incorrect and that they expect this contingency to arise within a few years? Will he keep the matter well in mind in case development is quicker than the Government imagine possible?

Mr. Sandys

The scientists have not had very long to consider my reply. Existing regulations govern the height at which aircraft may fly over built-up areas, and the revision of the regulations will be considered when we have more experience of the problem.