HC Deb 24 February 1971 vol 812 cc165-6W
Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what current research projects are being undertaken by the Advisory Council on Noise.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

The council does not itself undertake research but may recommend Ministers to promote additional projects. A sub-committee of the council, under the chairmanship of Dr. E. J. Richards, is reviewing the current state of noise research and will draw the council's attention to any areas in which it sees a need for further work to be put in hand.

Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many recommendations to Ministers involved in maintaining the quality of the environment have been made by the Advisory Council on Noise since March, 1970; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

In the course of its initial review of the noise problem the council has expressed views on a number of matters. These are set out in the statement "The Noise Advisory Council—The First Eight Months" released on 23rd December. Copies have been placed in the Library. The council is now preparing recommendations to Ministers on the routeing of aircraft near airports, on the strengthening of the Noise Abatement Act, and on a traffic noise index for general adoption. They are being consulted about the International Conference on the Environment to be held in Stockholm in 1972.