HC Deb 05 August 1942 vol 382 cc1013-4
22. Mr. Silkin

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Planning why the railings in Campden Hill Square, Kensington, have not been removed?

28. Sir William Davison

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Planning if he will state the reasons why the Special Appeal Panel have directed the retention of the railings round the garden enclosure at Campden Hill Square, Kensington, which were scheduled for removal by the Kensington Borough Council, while the railings of many other similar squares and enclosures have been removed; and, in particular, how these railings have been differentiated by the Panel from the railings of Ladbroke Square Garden, which was a freehold property specially purchased as an open space and let to subscribers in the neighbourhood for recreation and a children's playground, a purpose which has been frustrated by the removal of the railings?

Mr. Hicks

The railings in Campden Hill Square are being retained on the recommendation of the Special Appeal Panel. The Panel is concerned only with appeals on the grounds of special artistic merit or historic interest and not with the conditions under which the open spaces have been enclosed and maintained.

Mr. Silkin

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that these railings have no special beauty or historic value, and that the suggestion is being made that they are being retained for future ulterior purposes? Will he take this matter back again to the Panel?

Mr. Hicks

If my hon. Friend requests me to do so, I will ask the Panel to have another look at the matter.

Mr. Thorne

Fair play for all and privileges for none.