§ 53. Sir W. DAVISONasked the First Commissioner of Works under what circumstances the charge for chairs in the Royal Parks has just been increased from 734 1d. to 2d.; whether he has considered that this 100 per cent, increase is likely to prevent large numbers of people of small means from using the chairs; and whether, under these circumstances, the increased charge will in all probability produce a less revenue than is at present being received?
Lieut.-Commander H. YOUNGI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on Wednesday last to a similar question by the hon. Member for Finchley, from which he will see that had not an increased charge been made there would have been a marked loss in revenue, whereas an increased revenue is now secured. A large number of free seats are provided.
§ Sir W. DAVISONWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman say how it is that the existing charge maintained throughout the War is now increased, and will he answer the last part of my question which suggests that the increased charge is more likely to bring about a decreased than an increased revenue? Will he also consider the question of the issue of weekly or monthly tickets to infirm persons and persons in charge of children so as to temper the wind to the shorn lamb?
Lieut.-Commander YOUNGThe hon. Gentleman will see that the increased revenue is already secured. As to the rest I should like notice of the questions.