HC Deb 04 December 1961 vol 650 cc902-3
2. Mr. Brockway

asked the Minister of Aviation what representations he has received from residents' associations and other interested parties regarding the decision to permit jet aircraft an extended use of London Airport during the night hours; and what replies he has made.

Mr. Woodhouse

A number of residents' associations, local authorities and other organisations have made representations against the regular use of Heathrow by jet aircraft at night. In reply my right hon. Friend has explained the benefits that these night flights bring to the country as a whole and the steps taken to reduce the annoyance caused to those living near the airport.

Mr. Brockway

But does the hon. Gentleman know that when we met the right hon. Gentleman in conference he indicated to us that there would be no jet flights at night except those which were delayed in their ordinary course? Is he aware that this is an appalling and utterly intolerable grievance to the people who live on the edge of the airport? Is he aware that the medical officer of Slough has said that the health of the people in those areas will be deeply affected by the disturbance at night? When is the hon. Gentleman going to think of residents in this country rather than the jet lines serving America and other territories?

Mr. Woodhouse

I assure the hon. Gentleman that my right hon. Friend does most carefully consider the interests of residents in this country as well as those of travellers abroad. I am not sure of the date at which the meeting to which the hon. Gentleman referred took place, but, if it was of recent date, I cannot believe that my right hon. Friend said that there would be no jet flights at night.

Mr. Brockway

It was before the agreement.

Mr. Woodhouse

Yes, Sir, and since then jet aircraft have been allowed to operate under restricted conditions at night.

Mr. Brockway

That is what we are protesting about.

Mr. Woodhouse

Such operations are still more limited in winter. As regards the medical suffering, we are advised by the medical authorities that there is no danger to health, although we entirely agree that it is a most serious annoyance.

Mr. Brockway

In view of this utterly unsatisfactory reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible moment.

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