HC Deb 09 March 1926 vol 192 cc2099-100
82. Sir H. BRITTAIN

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the ever-increasing traffic in the centre of London, his Department has given consideration to the suggestion of utilising the north, south, and east sides of Hyde Park to form, in combination with the adjacent streets, a one-way traffic system each side of the present boundary of the park?

Colonel ASHLEY

I should strongly deprecate any action which would adversely affect the amenities of the parks unless a ease of overwhelming necessity arose. I have consulted my right hon. Friend the First Commissioner of Works, who concurs in my views. If effect were given to the proposal of the hon. Member, it would necessarily involve the use of the roadways in Hyde Park by all classes of traffic, including locomotives, heavy lorries and omnibuses. In my view, there is no need from a traffic point of view to take any such action, and I am hopeful that the scheme for dealing with traffic at Hyde Park Corner, already made public, will meet present requirements.

Mr. HAYES

Has the right hon. Gentleman ascertained the opinion of the Home Secretary on that point?

Colonel ASHLEY

I am working in conjunction with the First Commissioner of Police.

Mr. HAYES

Will the Minister of Transport see that the amenities of the park are not affected by any police regulations dealing with traffic in that way?

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Will the right hon. Gentleman consult the Home Secretary, who yesterday expressed very sound views on this subject? [HON. MEMBERS: "Unsound!"]