To ask the Secretary of State for defence what research his Department has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated into a link between noise levels from military low flying and deafness in children; and if he will make a statement. [10086]

My Department has not conducted specific research into the subject. We do, however, closely monitor scientific research on noise and hearing including that relating to possible hearing loss in children due to aircraft noise. We believe that the restrictions we place on the heights, speeds and operating procedures of military aircraft should ensure that the level of noise experienced on the ground is not harmful, particularly given the brief exposure involved.