§ 12. Mr. Jannerasked the Minister of Works whether, in view of the large number of persons, including visitors from all parts of Britain and from overseas, who visit the Royal Parks in the London area, he will make arrangements at an early date to effect an improvement in the quality and variety of shrubs and flowers therein, and particularly to arrange, in 965 conjunction with the horticultural industry, to provide an effective demonstration of the achievements of modern British horticulture in this field.
§ Mr. TomlinsonIt has always been the aim of the Department to provide the most effective display of shrubs and flowers in the Royal Parks, though naturally during the war, owing to shortage of labour and the need for concentrating on food production, it has not been possible to preserve the high standard attained in the past. Now that more labour is becoming available, and, as stocks of plants increase, further improvements may be expected in the general appearance of the Royal Parks, and any proposals put forward by the horticultural trade for providing new and improved varieties will always be welcome.
§ Mr. Charles WilliamsWill the right hon. Gentleman do everything in this respect to encourage the use of British grown horticultural products and new forms of British varieties?
§ Mr. TomlinsonYes, Sir.
Mr. EccksIs the right hon. Gentleman making an experiment with beech or hornbeam hedges, because these deciduous plants are much cleaner in London than the evergreen plants which are planted now?
§ Mr. TomlinsonWe have been making experiments with quite a number of hedges, and I will take notice of the hon. Member's suggestion.