HC Deb 28 February 1949 vol 462 cc9-10
20. Mr. Piratin

asked the Minister of Works how many acres of Clapham Common are now being used for purposes such as air-raid shelters, excavation dumps, gun site, prefabricated houses, army huts, day nursery and Ministry of Works Depot; and what percentage of the whole of Clapham Common this constitutes.

Mr. Key

About 2½ acres, representing about 10 per cent. of the Common. The gun site and the Ministry of Works Depot were de-requisitioned some months ago.

Mr. Piratin

In view of the fact that the Minister now expects to take over another eight acres for a car park for the 1951 Exhibition, and in view of the fact that there is widespread indignation in that part of London, will he go into the question of releasing some further areas for leisure and recreation before proceeding with the car park?

Mr. Key

It is news to me that I am contemplating taking eight acres for a car park.