HC Deb 25 June 1956 vol 555 cc3-4
2. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Supply what complaints of damage were made to his Department following the recent world record speed flight by the D.R.2 aircraft; what investigations he has made into these complaints; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maudling

Up to 31st May we had received about 160 complaints, mostly of a minor nature. We have followed the normal procedure of investigation, and a few of the complaints have also been investigated by the Building Research Station which is studying the effects of supersonic bangs on buildings.

I regret that this series of flights should have given rise to an exceptionally large number of claims, but this prototype aircraft could not be hazarded in supersonic flight over the sea and, in any case, it would have been impracticable to measure its speed otherwise than in flight over land. In general, the measures I announced on 11th July, 1955, have been very effective; most supersonic flights take place without causing damage.

Mr. Beswick

While not in any way deprecating that record flight, would the Minister not agree that there is here a most serious social problem? In some of these areas, in part of the South Coast especially, life is being made quite intolerable by these repeated exercises. Is adequate compensation being paid in these cases, and is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied also that everything is being done to minimise the damage that is caused?

Mr. Maudling

While we do not accept liability in these matters, we do pay compensation as if liability rested upon the Crown. The number of supersonic bangs taking place is much less than a year ago, but I agree that this is a serious problem, and the Building Research Station is embarking on a long-term study of the whole effects of jet flying on buildings.

Mr. Beswick

Can the Minister publish some of the results of the inquiries which have taken place, because this is a problem about which the country as a whole ought to be informed?

Mr. Maudling

We did publish some of the results of an investigation carried out by the Royal Aircraft Establishment at Farnborough, and as soon as anything more useful is available I will certainly publish it.