§ Mrs. Braddockasked the Minister of Aviation if he is aware that a Lightning jet fighter broke the sound barrier over Liverpool at 11.30 a.m. on 29th March, 1960, doing damage and frightening many Liverpool citizens; and if he will cause a full inquiry to be made, and compensate for any damage occasioned.
§ Mr. SandysThe supersonic boom at Liverpool on 29th March was caused by a Lightning aircraft on a development test flight from Warton airfield. The supersonic part of the flight was planned56W to be carried out entirely over the Irish Sea, but owing to technical difficulties affecting the radar control, the acceleration to supersonic speed took place before the aircraft had crossed the coast. I very much regret any distress or damage that may have been caused. In the event of there being a claim for damage ascribed to supersonic booms, this should be addressed to the Air Ministry.