§ 89. Mr. Dudley Smithasked the Minister of Aviation if, when civil supersonic aircraft become operative, he will refuse to allow the sonic boom to take place over the Greater London area.
§ Mr. MartenRestrictions on the supersonic operations of these aircraft will be required, but I cannot say at this stage what areas they will affect.
§ Mr. Speirasked the Minister of Aviation at what altitude planes breaking the sound barrier were flying when they caused damage for which his Department have accepted and paid claims for compensation to members of the public during the past twelve months.
§ Mr. MartenDuring the past twelve months these flights were at heights between 32,000 ft. and 39,000 ft. However, in July 1963 six flights were made at 24,000 ft. for an exceptional purpose.
§ Mr. Speirasked the Minister of Aviation whether, as a general policy, he will only authorise aircraft to break the sound barrier over land in Britain at an altitude of not less than 40,000 feet.
§ Mr. MartenNo.