SIR THOMAS CHAMBEESasked the First Commissioner of Works, By whose authority, and under what circumstances, the playing of the band from 6.30 to 8.30 p.m., in St. James's Park, has been forbidden?
LORD HENRY LENNOXSir, the band of the Corps of Commissionaires was allowed to play in the Cambridge Enclosure from 1862 to 1864; but in the course of the latter year loud complaints were made and remonstrances addressed by those who lived in the houses around, as to the crowds of disorderly persons, both of women and men, that collected to hear the band. In 1865 and 1866 these complaints were repeatedly renewed, and the position of the band in the Enclosure was several times altered, but without any good effect following. In 1867 it was removed to a site in St. James's Park opposite the Horse Guards, and there it played until 1870. This year the band renewed their application to play in the Cambridge Enclosure, and stated that the occupation of the houses in the neighbourhood was changed, and they had, therefore, a hope that no objection would be made. Being, as the House will readily understand, anxious to meet the wishes of these old soldiers, I gave the permission; but I had no sooner done so than serious remonstrances from the same quarters were made, and, having satisfied myself that there was ground for these complaints, I had no option but to withdraw that permission, at the same time offering them the position in St. James's Park which they had occupied from 1867 till 1870. I need scarcely assure the House that throughout this matter I have acted after due consultation and in concert with the illustrious Duke who is the Ranger of St. James's Park.