§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what recent representations he has had on the problems of(a) noise pollution and (b) noisy neighbours. [7850]
§ Mr. ClappisonMy Department continues to receive representations about all forms of environmental noise on a regular basis. The vast majority of representations relate to neighbour noise issues.
Following the review of neighbour noise controls, a package of measures is being taken forward aimed at strengthening the controls over excessive noise from domestic premises and improving local authority noise services and liaison with the police through guidance and dissemination of best practice.
The hon. Member for Ealing, North (Mr. Greenway) is taking forward a private Member's Bill which will introduce clearer powers for temporary confiscation of noise making equipment and a new criminal offence to deal with excessive noise at night from domestic premises.