HC Deb 20 May 1975 vol 892 cc346-7W
Mr. Sandelson

asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether the review of the noise insulation grants schemes at Heathrow and Gatwick has been completed; and, if so, when revised schemes will be brought into operation.

Mr. Clinton Davis

The review has been completed in consultation with the British Airports Authority, taking into account representations made by hon. Members, by the two airport consultative committees, by local authorities and by others concerned. Statutory instruments, embodying revised schemes, will be laid before Parliament shortly. The changes being made involve a limited extension of the inner area of the scheme at Heathrow and, at both airports, an increase in the maximum grants available from the BAA, plus a reduction in the applicant's contribution in the outer area from 25 per cent. to 15 per cent., and improvements in the minimum specifications for work done under the two schemes.