§ 50. Mr. HANLEYasked the First Commissioner of Works if, in view of the fact that he proposes temporarily to close Richmond Park to riders in the afternoon, he will allow them to use the park after six o'clock during this period, as many of them are unable to ride in the mornings?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)I will give this suggestion sympathetic consideration when the time arrives for taking action under the proposed new Regulations. I have already stated that I do not propose to use my powers to any greater degree than may be required to prevent the disfiguration of the park. Damaged areas have been sown with new grass seed, and, until the effect of this can be ascertained, I cannot say exactly what restrictions it will be necessary to impose.
§ Mr. HANLEYWould my right hon. Friend be prepared to receive a small deputation of riders, in order that they may give him their views on this point?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREMy Department have already met two deputations in connection with this matter, and I went down to Richmond Park myself last Thursday afternoon. It is perfectly clear that, unless there is some restriction on riding, the turf cannot possibly recover in this wet year.
§ Sir W. DAVISONIn considering this matter, will my right hon. Friend consider the question whether, as in the case of other sports, riders should be prohibited from riding all over the park in wet, soft weather, when the damage is done, but confined to certain roads, while being granted the same privileges as hitherto in hard, dry weather, when no damage is done?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThat is my proposal. I propose that there shall be no restriction in hard, dry weather, but, in wet weather, when damage is being done and the turf cut up, it is necessary to impose these temporary restrictions.