HC Deb 03 August 1882 vol 273 cc595-6
MR. T. P. O'CONNOR

asked the First Commissioner of Works, Whether the promoters of the Sunday bands in the Hyde, Victoria, Battersea, and Regent's Parks are permitted by the Department to sell programmes and let seats within the boundaries of the said parks, in aid of the funds to support the bands; whether any evil results have become known to the Department from such sales, &c.; and, whether it is the intention of the Department to allow the present arrangements, whereby the bands are rendered self-supporting, to be continued during the present and succeeding seasons?

MR. SHAW LEFEVRE

The hon. Member has correctly described the practice which exists and is permitted in the Parks he names in respect of the Sunday bands. I know of no evil which has resulted; on the contrary, I believe they have given innocent enjoyment to many thousands of people, and I have no intention to interfere with them so long as their promoters observe the law.

MR. T. P. O'CONNOR

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman would use his influence with the Metropolitan Board of Works to extend the boon to the Parks under their direction?

MR. SHAW LEFEVRE

said, that he had no authority over the Parks under the management of the Metropolitan Board of Works; but he would communicate with the Board on the subject.