§ 29. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the Minister of Aviation Supply whether he will make a further statement about research work currently being undertaken by Government establishments into quietening jet engines.
§ Mr. David PriceThe National Gas Turbine Establishment is studying major sources of noise so as to improve both existing and new engines. Expenditure is currently about £140,000 a year.
§ Mr. McNair-WilsonWould my hon. Friend not agree that aircraft noise has become a major urban source of environmental pollution and, in view of the large sums of money we have discussed in this House on the possibility of building a third London airport, would not this money be better spent trying to invent "hush kits" for existing jet engines and ensuring we have engines which can be retrofitted into existing airliners?
§ Mr. PriceI answered the Question my hon. Friend put to me. I should add that outside our own establishments about £1 million a year is being spent on extra-mural research projects. As to retrofit, current studies suggest that the scope for quietening existing engines may not be as great as previously thought and the cost is very high. As he knows, the question has been discussed internationally and no decision is likely for some time.