§ 1. Miss WILKINSONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has received applications for the removal of the Covent Garden market to the site of the Foundling Hospital; and whether, in view of the fact that there is no adequate open space in this crowded neighbourhood and that this land has been dedicated to the use of children for over 200 years, he will withhold his consent?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Sir Kingsley Wood)I have been asked to reply to this question. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Health has not received any application in this matter, but he observes that notice has now been given for a Private Bill, and the matter will therefore come before Parliament.
Mr. SMITH ERSWill the hon. Member or the Government use any influence or powers which they may possess, to see that the University of London have the option of purchasing this site?
§ Sir WILLIAM DAVISONIs the hon. Member aware that the University of London considered this site for some time, and declined it?
§ Miss WILKINSONWill the hon. Member's Department give full consideration to the fact that this is a very crowded area, and that there are no playgrounds for children within acres of this particular place?
§ Sir K. WOODNo doubt my right hon. Friend will have regard to that and other relevant facts.
Commander BELLARSWill the Minister of Health consider, with the Minister of Transport, when the time comes, the alternative of allowing railway companies to own the fruit markets?
§ Sir K. WOODThat is rather wide of the question.