HC Deb 11 February 1976 vol 905 cc216-7W
Mr. George

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many successful prosecutions have been brought under the Noise Abatement Act 1960; if he will break down the figures into categories of offences; and if he is satisfied that there is adequate enforcement of the restrictions on the use of ice-cream chimes.

Mr. Denis Howell

The latest figures that are available cover 1973. In that year 514 persons were found guilty in England and Wales for offences under the Noise Abatement Act. Information for earlier years is not readily available. Information by category of offence could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

The Noise Abatement Act 1960 was superseded in England and Wales from 1st January 1976 by Part III of the Control of Pollution Act 1974. Section 62 of the latter Act makes provision for ice-cream chimes to be operated between noon and 7 in the evening of the same day in such a way as not to give reasonable cause for annoyance to persons in the vicinity. A code of practice to control the operation of ice-cream chimes is under consideration.