§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Minister of Technology what precautions will be taken to protect ancient and historic buildings liable to damage by sonic boom before test flights are made by Concorde; what standards will be applied in awarding compensation for damage to historic buildings or domestic homes; and what time limit will be laid down for making claims, in view of the fact that damage may not be revealed for some time after the tests.
§ Mr. David PriceWe have examined this question most carefully but consider that no special precautions are necessary. Claims will be assessed by the Claims Commission of the Ministry of Defence and compensation will be paid for any damage that may be caused by Concorde's boom. There is no time limit for claims but Concorde's boom is not expected to cause damage that does not become apparent at the time.
§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Minister of Technology how many test flights will be made by the Concorde along the west coast route, as a result of which North Down will be affected by the sonic boom; and whether after the first test flight he will obtain a report of any damage caused by the sonic boom before authorising the second test flight.
§ Mr. David PriceUp to 50 supersonic flights, all of which are expected to affect North Devon, will be made by Concorde over the next three years along the west coast route in the course of the development programme. Individual flights will be authorised according to the needs of110W the programme, and the effect of Concorde's boom on structures will be monitored throughout the test flying.