§ 35. Mr. Viantasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he is aware of the damage caused to Richmond Park by horse riders who carelessly disregard the regulations; and, in view of the up keep of the park being borne by public funds, will he take steps to see that the regulations are strictly enforced?
§ Captain DugdaleA considerable amount of damage to the turf in the park has been caused by horse riders during the past few years. My right hon. Friend would prefer to say that this has been due rather to the increased popularity of riding than to any general disregard by riders of the regulations. Since the restriction of riding at week-ends and at certain other times to a special track, which has been in force since September last, there has been noticeable improvement in the condition of the turf.
§ 36. Mr. R. Morganasked the First Commissioner of Works when he intends to lay before Parliament the revised regulations dealing with riding in Richmond Park; and whether he can give an assurance that, before any system is introduced for charging riders for admission to the park, there will be full consultation with the riders concerned and that, in so far as it is necessary to provide a riding-track for use after long spells of wet weather, that track shall be free of dangerous patches, well drained, and providing adequate amenities for the riders concerned?
§ Captain DugdaleMy right hon. Friend hopes to be able to lay the revised draft regulations before Parliament at an early date. He has already had a full discussion with representatives of riders using Richmond Park on all the points at issue and he can give an assurance to my hon. Friend that the work of improving the riding-track which is in progress, will be continued and that constant attention will be given to the maintenance of the track.