§ Mr. Hayhoeasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what progress is being made in achieving the planned reduction in the number of night jet movements at Heathrow for 1973.
§ Mr. OnslowAs explained in the letter sent to my hon. Friend on 26th June, the total of night jet movements since 1st April is a little higher than for the comparable period in 1972, though the number 77W of take-offs is less. It remains the intention, as announced on 4th April, to secure an overall reduction of about 10 per cent. by comparison with last year, and my officials have recently discussed the position with the airlines. I am hopeful that, with their co-operation, our objective can be achieved, but if voluntary agreement is not forthcoming further restrictions will be imposed to keep the total to the target level.