HC Deb 21 April 1969 vol 782 cc16-7
10. Mr. Archer

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will take steps to encourage research into the reduction or elimination of noise from internal combustion engines, by producing sounds of a frequency range inaudible to the human ear, or otherwise.

Mr. Bob Brown

We shall continue to encourage steps towards reducing vehicle noise. Research indicates that sound vibrations inaudible to the human ear can sometimes be more injurious than ordinary noises.

Mr. Archer

I agree with my hon. Friend's final point, but would not he agree that many remedial measures such as improved mountings can be instituted at comparatively small cost and that, even in purely economic terms, this would be a good investment?

Mr. Brown

While not wanting to go into details, I would point out that considerable research into engine design is going on, notably at Southampton University. I hope that the engine manufacturers themselves will increase their development effort.

Mr. Dudley Smith

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this is a growing problem in urban areas where existing roads are being developed as major roads, and that it is particularly worrying in parts of the Midlands?

Mr. Brown

I accept that there has been an increase in this worrying problem but I assure the hon. Gentleman that we are taking cognisance of it.

Mr. E. Rowlands

How much is spent per year on investigation and research into the costs of such noise as opposed to the amount we may spend, for example, on Concorde or other enormous capital investments in transport?

Mr. Brown

Clearly, my hon. Friend will have to put down a separate Question about that.

19. Mr. Archer

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will introduce into the periodical testing of motor vehicles a requirement that engine noise at normal speeds shall not exceed a reasonable level

Mr. Bob Brown

We are considering whether a noise test can be included as part of the annual examination of heavy goods vehicles. It would not be practicable to check noise as part of the annual private car test.

Mr. Archer

Does my hon. Friend agree that the noise made by some vehicles, particularly commercial vehicles, is wholly unreasonable, and subjects their drivers to quite unwarrantable health risks? Has he no remedy to offer?

Mr. Brown

The police bring thousands of successful prosecutions each year, and the 1968 Regulations provide a new method of roadside enforcement which will help, but it is very difficult to do anything about a small minority of people who are determined to drive their cars as noisily as possible.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

Instead of introducing new regulations, will the Minister do something to see that the 20 per cent. who do not now have their vehicles tested for roadworthiness certificates have them tested? It is no good introducing new regulations unless the others are enforced.

Mr. Brown

This is another question, which has been fairly well ventilated with my hon. Friend in the past.