House of Commons · Westminster Hall
10 March 2021 · 0 other contributors · 4,214 words
Opened by Hywel Williams PC Arfon
Responding minister: Jeremy Quin
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Hywel Williams raised concerns about noise pollution and military aviation in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
I ask for information about the proportion of Texan flights over restricted areas compared to other regions. I also inquire about short-term noise reduction measures and whether manoeuvres that cause significant noise can be halted or varied without compromising safety procedures or reducing work for ground staff at RAF Valley. Additionally, I seek clarity on the decision-making process behind purchasing these aircraft and its potential implications.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
I am concerned about the frequent and unacceptable noise levels from Texan T1 aircraft at RAF Valley, despite assurances that steps are being taken to equip them with necessary safety equipment. The area is surrounded by sea on three sides, limiting where the aircraft can fly over land, causing a disproportionate concentration of flights over north and west Wales, impacting residents' health and wellbeing, wildlife, and tourism industry.
Government Response
Jeremy QuinI congratulate the hon. Member for Arfon on securing this debate and appreciate his advocacy for his constituents. The Royal Air Force remains vital to national security, requiring rigorous training that includes essential low-level flying. Since 2012, there have been seven aircrew fatalities; efforts are made to ensure pilots are well-trained while recognising the impact of noise pollution. RAF Valley is a significant employer and contributor to Ynys Môn with £3.5 billion in investment for military training. The minister acknowledges increased complaints about low-flying in 2020, noting that 95% of night flying occurs before 10pm. Efforts are made to spread flight activities equitably across Wales, the Isle of Man, and Cumbria to minimise localised noise impact. The minister discusses safety improvements for Texan aircraft operating over water, highlighting that while automatic features for life preservers have been resolved, an automatic deployment feature remains under development. He commits to further investigation into spreading flights beyond north Wales and addressing public concerns through the MOD's low flying complaints unit. Noise levels from military aircraft are generally decreasing over time, but improvements may be limited by technical constraints.