HC Deb 18 January 1971 vol 809 c214W
118. Mr. Nicholas Edwards

asked the Minister of Aviation Supply whether, in view of the distress caused in West Wales by Concorde flights, he will arrange for all further trial flights to be made over the North Sea.

Mr. Corfield

No. These flights are an essential part of the Concorde test programme. The route passing down the west coast was chosen after very careful consideration as the one that most nearly met the technical and safety requirements of this programme whilst affecting the minimum number of people. Fifty-three complaints and 112 claims for damage have been received from Wales following the 10 flights that have taken place so far.

Mr. Deakins

asked the Minister of Aviation Supply what studies he is making of the environmental pollution caused by the Concorde aircraft.

Mr. Corfield

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to the Question on this subject from the hon. Member for Fife, West (Mr. William Hamilton) on 18th November, 1970.—[Vol. 806, c.400]