§ Sir D. Walker-Smithasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what consideration he has given to the evidence in the report of the Association of Public Health Inspectors in regard to noise complaints from the public; and what action he intends, if necessary, by legislation, to take in regard thereto.
§ Mr. Eldon GriffithsThe Government welcome this valuable report and have consulted the Association of Public Health Inspectors on the evidence it contains in the preparation of the noise part of the Protection of the Environment Bill. This would enable local authorities to establish noise abatement zones. Within these zones existing noise levels from designated classes of premises would be measured and registered; they would not then be allowed to be increased without consent. Local authorities will also have the power to specify noise requirements before work starts on a construction site.
§ Sir D. Walker-Smithasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what advice his Department has received from the Noise Advisory Council in relation to the need for a third London airport as soon as possible to alleviate nuisance to people on the ground.
§ Mr. Eldon GriffithsAt its meeting on 25th September the Noise Advisory Council adopted a resolution drawing attention to the severity of noise disturbance at Heathrow and to the increasing problems at other London airports, and recording its view that, in addition to the quietening of aircraft engines, a third London airport is needed solely on noise grounds, as soon as practicable.