§ Mr. Alan Williamsasked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will investigate complaints which have now recurred from the Swansea area about apparent sonic booms between the hours of 6 pm and 10 pm on various evenings; and if he will take steps to stop this nuisance.
§ Mr. TebbitThere has been extensive investigation of these and other similar complaints from the South-West, most of which can be attributed to secondary sonic booms generated by inbound Concorde flights during the winter months. The changes in operational procedures which have already been introduced have significantly reduced the areas which are, subject to this disturbance. In the light of the experience during the winter months the procedures will be reviewed to see whether there is further scope for improvement.