§ Mr. James Hillasked the Minister of Transport what use he is making of the research carried out by Southampton university on noise reduction for heavy diesel engines; and if he will make a statement on progress in this area of research.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeSouthampton university made an important contribution to the quiet heavy vehicle project which was initiated by the Transport and 169W Road Research Laboratory and which has demonstrated the feasibility of developing heavy goods vehicles with a noise level of not higher than 80 decibels. The laboratory is now analysing the costs entailed in achieving such performances. We shall then consider with others concerned how best to make further progress.