§ 24. Mr. BRIANTasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he can make arrangements for the use of Hyde Park for cricket pitches, considering that there are hundreds of clubs which are being deprived of the opportunity of playing cricket owing to the scarcity of playing fields?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Sir Alfred Mond)I have given the question of playing cricket and other games in the Royal Parks my most careful consideration. Certain facilities have been granted to the troops quartered in London, but owing to the danger to the public which would be incurred if hard ball games were allowed. I regret that I see no possibility of making concessions in this direction.
§ Viscount CURZONIs there more danger in playing cricket than in making dangerous speeches at the Marble Arch?
§ Sir A. MONDConsiderably more danger to children when cricket balls are flying about.
§ Mr. BRIANTConsidering the very large area of this park, cannot some portion be set aside entirely for cricket?
§ Sir A. MONDI do not think it would be right to exclude the public from their right to go over any part of the park.
§ Captain REDMONDHave the Government got any idea of what it is to play cricket?