HC Deb 23 July 1958 vol 592 cc413-4
38. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what discussions he had, during his visit to the United States of America, with regard to international agreement on the control of aircraft noise; and if he will make a statement.

51. Mr. Rankin

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what plans he has for a unified policy on aircraft noise among airport authorities.

Mr. Watkinson

I have had a most useful exchange of views with the Port of New York Authority following discussions in London among representatives of the Western European airport authorities. It seems to be generally accepted, on the basis of information so far available, that unless there is further progress in engine silencing the operations of large jet aircraft at airports in built-up areas will have to be somewhat restricted if they are not to cause considerable disturbance.

The restrictions, which will vary from place to place, are now being studied by the authorities responsible for the major airports, who have undertaken to keep each other closely informed.

Mr. Beswick

While thanking the Minister for that reply, and for the interest and initiative which he has shown in this important matter, may I ask him if he is aware that none of us wants to see London Airport by-passed, or a British Minister taking a responsible attitude and then finding that other countries are under-cutting us? What steps is the Minister taking to get some real international agreement in this matter? Has he considered calling an international conference, or suggesting that the International Civil Aviation Conference should convene one at which these international arrangements could be expedited?

Mr. Watkinson

In fact, we have quite a workable agreement and it is that these jets will be tried at each airport. For example, we have had experience of the T.U.104 at London Airport, and, while I was in America, I issued a very warm invitation to American operators to bring the Boeing 707 to London as soon as possible and test it under actual conditions. Generally, what we have agreed to do is to try out the aircraft in normal passenger operating conditions at the airports concerned in order that each authority can say what it feels is the minimum—and I want to underline that, the minimum—restriction that will protect the interests of people living round the airport.