asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he is aware of the damage caused to buildings in Ventnor, Isle of Wight, on 19th December by a sonic boom; and if he will take steps to ensure that proper compensation claims are paid promptly.

The damage was caused by a supersonic boom which occurred while a Phantom aircraft was carrying out a trial flight. I very much regret this incident, and I can assure the hon. Member that all claims for compensation will be dealt with as quickly as possible.