HC Deb 14 November 1956 vol 560 cc939-40
21. Mr. Skeffington

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will take steps under Section 41 of the Civil Aviation Act, 1949, to regulate the noise caused on aerodromes by the new jet aircraft which British Overseas Airways Corporation is purchasing from the United States of America.

Mr. Watkinson

In the leases which I have granted to it in the Maintenance Area at London Airport, the Corporation has accepted the obligation to take all reasonable measures to abate noise. I am confident that it will carry it out and that the need to use statutory powers for this purpose is not likely to arise.

Mr. Skeffington

Would the Minister say whether his Answer includes the possibility of fitting silencers to this new type of aircraft operating from London Airport? I understand that quite considerable progress has been made. Will he bear in mind that the residents there, some of whom were living there long before the aerodrome came into being, have suffered excruciatingly, and that something ought to be done to alleviate their very great fears for the future?

Mr. Watkinson

I quite agree with what the hon. Member has said. I think he will know that a lot of work is going on. The Conway engine, which will be fitted to these new aircraft, is rather quieter than some jets. Work is going on with mufflers on engines for work on the ground, and with special designs of a jet nozzle. Much is being done, but it is too early yet to say what success we shall have.