§ Mr. ÖpikTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what requirements govern the permissible noise levels for low-level RAF flight training; and if he will make a statement; [29477]
(2) what measures his Department takes to monitor the noise pollution generated by low-level flight training; and if he will make a statement; [29478]
(3) what plans he has to introduce restrictions on the level of noise that flight training may create at ground level; and if he will make a statement. [29479]
§ Mr. SpellarMy Department already places restrictions on the heights, speeds and operating procedures of military aircraft in the UK, which are designed to ensure that noise levels experienced on the ground represent a sensible balance between our essential training requirements and environmental considerations. The restrictions are kept under continuous review to reflect medical and scientific advice and experience of noise measurement surveys carried out by, or on behalf of, my Department.