HC Deb 18 March 1985 vol 75 cc625-6
14. Mr. Soames

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on aircraft noise at Gatwick airport.

Mr. Michael Spicer

The noise climate around Gatwick has improved significantly over the last 10 years. Air transport movements have increased by 91 per cent. over this period, but the area in which people generally experience annoyance has decreased by 29 per cent.

Mr. Soames

Does my hon. Friend accept that although aircraft noise has considerably decreased, it is still very disturbing for those who live around international airports? Will he assure the House that he will release the report on aircraft noise as soon as conveniently possible?

Mr. Spicer

My Department has recently received the report and will be making it public by the end of the month. It will be sent to my hon. Friend as soon as it is available. The ill health of the CAA technical adviser has, I am afraid, caused a month's delay.