§ Mr. George Gardinerasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement about the review of his policy on the control of disturbance from aircraft noise at night at Heathrow and Gatwick airports, announced in the White Paper on "Airports Policy" (Cmnd. 9542).
§ Mr. Michael SpicerThe report of the further research referred to in the White Paper — "DR Report 8513: Noise Disturbance at Night near Heathrow and Gatwick Airports: 1984 Check Study''—is now available. I have today initiated the consultation process to which the White Paper also referred. The consultant's present report follows on from a major research programme into the relationship between aircraft noise and sleep disturbance.
One of the findings of the report states that our night restrictions policy has resulted in reduced noise exposure and broadly reduced night noise disturbance. That report, of course, forms only one part of the review. The other important component is consultation on all aspects of our night restrictions policy. The views of all those with a direct interest in the operation of aircraft at night at Heathrow and Gatwick — primarily the industry and those it operations affect—are essential.
I am anxious, however, to hear all views to enable me to determine whether the present balance of interests is right or whether it needs updating. I would, therefore, like those whom I am formally consulting to let me have their comments by 15 July.
These comments will be carefully examined and will be taken into account in deciding whether any changes to the current night restrictions policy are appropriate.
I have placed a copy of the study report in the Library of the House.