HC Deb 06 July 1966 vol 731 cc403-4
5. Mr. Iremonger

asked the Minister of Aviation if he will make a statement on the anticipated effects of supersonic boom over Greater London and other parts of the British Isles.

Mr. Snow

My Department is fully conscious of the need to minimise the nuisance of sonic bangs from supersonic aircraft, and studies into this problem are proceeding in association with the French and American authorities.

Mr. Iremonger

Will the hon. Gentleman realise that the public are not prepared yet for what they may be subjected to, and, while looking into the possibility of minimising the effect, will he do something to prepare the public for what they will have to face even if he is as successful as he hopes?

Mr. Snow

Yes, Sir. On present information, it seems unlikely that supersonic flying will take place within 100 miles of the base airport from which these aircraft will operate. As to over-flying, we shall have to take international advice and considerations into account.

Mr. Maxwell-Hyslop

Does that mean that it is now expected that civil aircraft will fly supersonically over the United Kingdom? If so, is it not a departure from previous policy statements?

Mr. Snow

That is precisely what I did not say.