§ Mr. Alan Herbertasked the Secretary of State for Air what progress is being made in the reduction of the noise of aeroplanes; what are the relevant regulations; what steps are taken to enforce them; and whether he is satisfied that every effort compatible with safety and efficiency is being made to reduce the noise and nuisance caused by service and private aeroplanes, respectively?
§ Sir K. WoodResearch having for its object the reduction of noise of aeroplanes has for some time been proceeding. It is however impossible to hold out hope at the present time of a substantial reduction of noise.
In these circumstances, there are no regulations specifically applying to the question of noise by aircraft, but any avoidable nuisance would bring an offender within the scope of disciplinary or legal prohibitions against low or dangerous flying. In all cases of proved infringement 948W of such prohibitions as regards service aircraft the offender is adequately dealt with. As regards civil aircraft proceedings are taken in all proper cases and I believe pilots are in general mindful of the duty of flying in such a way as to minimise annoyance and disturbance. The question whether further measure can be taken is under consideration.