57. Vice-Admiral TAYLORasked the First Commissioner of Works whether his attention has been called to the continual traffic congestion at the Victoria Gate entrance to Hyde Park; and whether he proposes to take any action in the matter so as to improve the traffic conditions?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)I am aware of the problem to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers. It is being considered, in connection with the question of traffic generally in and around the park, by the Ministry of Transport and the police authorities, and will be considered by my Department in the light of their representations.
Vice-Admiral TAYLORCannot my right hon. Friend come to a decision on this matter which has been under consideration for some years now? The congestion is very serious.
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREMy hon. and gallant Friend will know that an agreement made to alter one artery of traffic in a park may affect traffic in many other places. This is a problem which has to be considered as a whole, and, as I say, I am not a traffic authority or a traffic expert and this is a matter for the Ministry of Transport and the police authorities in London. I cannot do anything unless they make representations.
Vice-Admiral TAYLORCan the right hon. Gentleman give any indication of when the matter is likely to be considered and a decision come to?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GORENo, I cannot.
§ Mr. LEVYDoes my right hon. Friend mean that he cannot take action in respect of exits from the park unless he gets outside recommendations?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GORECertainly, I cannot alter the traffic rules and arrangements in and out of the park without consulting the traffic authorities.