§ 15. Major Sir Jocelyn Lucasasked the Minister of Works if he is aware that children, in many cases accompanied by their parents, are picking large bunches of crocuses and other cultivated flowers in the London public parks and taking them away; and, in view of the fact that these are planted for the enjoyment of the public, will he cause protective measures to be taken, including the erection of notices and by publicity in schools.
§ Mr. TomlinsonI am regretfully aware of the practice of which the hon. Member complains, and by precept and patrol will continue to do my best to protect the flowers in the Royal parks. It is, of course, impossible continuously to patrol all areas where flowers may be growing, and I must look to the public to help me to preserve the amenities which are provided for their enjoyment.
§ Sir J. LucasCould the right hon. Gentleman put some notices up asking people not to pick the flowers? Where I have seen them picking them there have been no notices.
§ Mr. TomlinsonI will consider that, but I think the fewer the notices that are erected in the parks the better.
§ Captain CrookshankWill the right hon. Gentleman consult with the Minister of Education to see whether something could be done in the schools towards teaching school children to be honest?
§ Mr. TomlinsonYes, I will certainly do are not all school children who are guilty of this practice.
§ Colonel Gomme-DuncanIn the light of the fact that we want as much grass and as many flowers as possible in the cities, would the right hon. Gentleman consider the question of railings, not to keep people off, but to preserve the grass?