HC Deb 04 August 1947 vol 441 cc960-1
10. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Minister of Works whether it is proposed to replace the railings around the Royal Parks, or whether he has any permanent alternative in mind.

The Minister of Works (Mr. Key)

There is no present intention of replacing the former high iron railings around the Royal Parks. In place of these it is proposed to plant hedges, protected where necessary by low steel mesh fencing. In places where hedges cannot be planted, it may be necessary to resort to some other kind of fencing.

Sir T. Moore

While I welcome the decision to discard railings, may I ask if the right hon. Gentleman will consider the use of yews or golden privet, as these seem to be particularly suitable?

Mr. Key

Most of these have, I think, been tried out in various parks.

Mr. Martin Lindsay

Will the right hon. Gentleman use his influence with the appropriate authorities, to have a similar decision is taken in respect of all the London squares?

Mr. Key

I do not think it has anything to do with the Minister of Works what people do with private property in the squares of London.