Aircraft Noise (Hansard, 16 February 1981)

1. Mr. Jesse1
asked the Secretary of State for Trade what action he intends to take this year to reduce the nuisance from aircraft noise to people living and working near Heathrow.

§ The Under Secretary of State for Trade (Mr. Reginald Eyre)
There is no short-term solution to this problem, but we shall continue to encourage the progressive introduction of quieter, noise-certificated aircraft and to maintain the wide range of operational controls which are designed to minimise the disturbance caused by aircraft noise.

§ Mr. Jessel
Does my hon. Friend accept that it should be Government policy to try to bring about a clear and definite cut in this pestilential nuisance which still causes great distress to large numbers of people? Will he make sure, in particular, that summer night time restrictions are increased from the present seven hours, which are not enough for a normal full night's sleep, and that within those hours no increase is allowed in the numbers of flights?

§ Mr. Eyre
Over the years, my hon. Friend has vigorously and effectively represented the interests of his constituents in these matters. I assure him that the Government understand his views and will do everything possible to take them into account commensurate with the proper use of important national assets.

§ Mr. Colvin
Is my hon. Friend aware of the enormous contribution by the civil aviation industry to the economy of this country, particularly in invisible exports? Does he appreciate that in the current world recession civil aviation needs further regulations like it needs a hole in the head, especially at a time when aircraft are getting bigger, engines quieter and movements therefore fewer? Will he give an undertaking to discuss these matters carefully with the civil aviation industry before proceeding with any regulations?

§ Mr. Eyre
It is necessary that airport authorities and the airlines should be able to make effective use of important assets in the interests of the national economy, but decisions will always be taken against a background of concern for those adversly affected.