HC Deb 23 April 1941 vol 371 c151
16. Mr. Tinker

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he is in a position to state how much land in the Royal Parks is now under cultivation to grow foodstuffs; and whether he will say what plans he has in mind to extend further cultivation for this purpose?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings (Mr. Hicks)

Approximately 320 acres have, in consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture, been placed under cultivation for growing foodstuffs. Having regard to numerous other war-time encroachments, and the great importance of maintaining the Royal Parks as open spaces for the pleasure and recreation of the public, it is not proposed to extend this area.

Mr. Tinker

Does not the hon. Gentleman agree that the Royal Parks could do no better service for the nation than that of growing foodstuffs, and will he not extend the land available, because I can assure him from my own observation that it would be very much appreciated?

Mr. Hicks

The only answer I can give my hon. Friend is that careful consideration has been given to the question of releasing land for cropping and allotments, but that there are limits to the extent to which it can be so used. In quite a lot of the parks there are trees, walks, water and pleasure grounds, and I think the acreage which has been granted represents quite a substantial proportion.