§ Lord Bethellasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are aware that a number of people living in the vicinity of British airports, especially Heathrow Airport, have suffered financially as a result of ice and other objects falling from aircraft, and whether, in view of the difficulties invoked in identifying the aircraft responsible, they will intiate a scheme whereby such victims may be compensated.
§ Lord TrefgarneThe owner of an aircraft is strictly liable for damage or injury caused to persons or property on the ground by ice or objects falling from the aircraft. Such incidents are relatively infrequent and the Government are not aware of significant financial loss suffered as a result. Where an aircraft cannot be traced, financial redress can be obtained under household and personal accident insurance policies. The Government therefore see no justification for a state compensation scheme.