§ Mr. HaywardTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has any intention to change the legislation in relation to noise pollution, in particular as it relates to noise created by parties and similar activities.
§ Mr. RookerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will bring forward proposals to strengthen noise pollution legislation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryAn independently chaired working party has been meeting regularly since February to discuss noise pollution, including loud parties and neighbourhood noise. The working party's recommendations will be considered in drafting the environment White Paper and the working party's report will also be published in full. These will indicate the changes that may be needed in noise control legislation.
The Entertainments (Increased Penalties) Act received Royal Assent on 13 July. This substantially increases the penalties to fines of up to £20,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both, in all cases where an event is held without a licence or where a licence condition regarding the number of people who might be present is breached. In addition, my right hon. and learned Friend the Home 363W Secretary has proposed that magistrates should be given power under the Criminal Justice Act 1988 to confiscate profits in excess of £10,000 made by those organising illegal parties or allowing their land or premises to be used for them.