Jet Engines (Noise)

Oral Answers to Questions — Ministry of Supply – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 28 November 1955.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Mr Nigel Nicolson Mr Nigel Nicolson , Bournemouth East and Christchurch 12:00, 28 November 1955

asked the Minister of Supply how much research has been done by his Department to discover a method of reducing the noise of jet engines while they are being tested in aircraft on the ground; and what are the results of that research.

Photo of Mr Reginald Maudling Mr Reginald Maudling , Barnet

On the scope and detail of the research programme I would refer my hon. Friend to the statements made in reply to questions by the hon. Members for Buckinghamshire, South (Mr. R. Bell), and Uxbridge (Mr. Beswick) on 28th June and 14th December, 1954, of which I am sending him copies. I am glad to say that the development of mufflers and pens for Hunter aircraft, which was undertaken as an experiment, has met with considerable success. Similar noise reducing equipment is being installed or developed by other companies with the encouragement of my Department.

Photo of Mr Nigel Nicolson Mr Nigel Nicolson , Bournemouth East and Christchurch

Will my right hon. Friend say that we have not yet perfected a device for reducing the noise of jet engines under test, and whether, when such a device is perfected, it will be obligatory for aircraft manufacturing companies to install it in factories close to built-up areas?

Photo of Mr Reginald Maudling Mr Reginald Maudling , Barnet

We have a definite and most important responsibility for ensuring that aircraft manufacturers do not make any more noise than the absolute minimum necessary in developing their aircraft.

Air Commodore Harvey:

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the noise will be considerably reduced by 1960?