HC Deb 12 July 1967 vol 750 c112W
116. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Technology what precautions are being taken to avoid sonic boom damage to cathedrals, churches and other ancient buildings of major historical and architectural importance.

Mr. Benn

Any sonic bangs made as a result of development flying or in the course of the special exercise announced last week in this House are kept well below the intensity likely to cause damage to buildings.

Mr. Evelyn King

asked the Minister of Technology how many sonic bangs have recently taken place over South Dorset; what proposals he has for future experiments; what consultation he has had with local authorities; and what plans he has to safeguard the amenities of those who live in the area.

Mr. Benn

The tests now in progress would not serve the purpose for which they are being held if I were to give particulars of the numbers of bangs made or the areas in which they occurred at this stage. I shall publish full details later. Although there has been no direct consultation with local authorities, the general nature of the exercise and its purpose have been announced and widely reported. I shall consider what further tests, if any, should be held when the present exercise is finished. In so doing, I shall have the need to safeguard amenities very much in mind.