asked the Minister of Aviation what steps he is taking or proposes to take about the nuisance to residents near London Airport caused by the discharge of burnt paraffin fumes.

Much of the nuisance arises from aircraft running at low power in or near the north terminal. When the north terminal is closed next year conditions should be much better. The airlines have built sound barriers in the maintenance areas and more are being built. These help to deflect fumes from residential areas.

Apart from the position of the aircraft, is it proposed by the Parliamentary Secretary that there should be other remedies? Will he bear in mind that many of my constituents not only have their nights spoilt by noise but now have their days and nights spoilt by obnoxious smells? Would he give an assurance that the matter is being seriously considered?

Yes, Sir. The matter is being considered seriously and research into the problem is being carried out now by two aircraft firms, Rolls-Royce and Bristol-Siddeley, and by the National Gas Turbine Establishment, But I cannot hold out strong hopes of an early solution.