HC Deb 11 April 1967 vol 744 c959
20. Mr. Ronald Bell

asked the Minister of Technology, what steps he is taking to co-ordinate the work of his Department with that of the Board of Trade in relation to the reduction of aircraft noise.

Mr. Stonehouse

The work of the two Departments is already co-ordinated. The redistribution of functions arising from the dissolution of the Ministry of Aviation has not affected the arrangements previously existing, which are being improved and strengthened.

Mr. Bell

As this matter is increasingly important and urgent and the Board of Trade must be particularly concerned with the commercial and administrative side of flying—[Interruption.]—

Mr. Speaker

Order. I cannot hear the question.

Mr. Bell

—does not the Minister consider it appropriate that his Department should take some part of the initiative in this important research?

Mr. Stonehouse

We are in close touch with the Board of Trade on the question, and I know that my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade is directly concerned about it.