§ 68. Mr. JAMES GARDNERasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he will take steps to approve the amenities of public spaces under his control, thus following the example of many English and Continental cities, notably Brighton, by removing the railings surrounding Hyde Park?
§ Mr. LANSBURYMy Department is all in favour of getting rid of railings in parks, unless they definitely serve some necessary purpose, and it is aiming at the gradual abolition of railings wherever possible. The railings around Hyde Park are, however, required to enable this open space to be shut at night-time.
Viscountess ASTORWill the right hon. Gentleman consider abolishing the railings around private parks such as St. James Square?
§ Mr. MACQUISTENAnd will the right hon. Gentleman also take into consideration the large amount of railing around the Marble Arch every Sunday evening?
§ Mr. LANSBURYI should like to inform hon. Members that, wherever possible, railings are being taken down at the present time.
§ Mr. GARDNERWhy is it necessary to close Hyde Park at night?