§ 6. Mr. Gerald Nabarroasked the Minister of Works what representations he has received about the future of the young hedgerows around St. James's Park; and if he will give an assurance that he will resist proposals to grub them up.
§ 7. Mr. John Tilneyasked the Minister of Works if he will consider removing the unsightly yew hedge that surrounds St. James's Park.
§ Mr. EcclesWhile I have received no official representations about this hedge, I am aware that there is considerable feeling for and against it. I am anxious to test public opinion further before taking any action.
One of the principles of laying out a park is to make a given space appear larger than it is. In my opinion the hedge breaks this principle by interrupting the view of the grass and lake. If it were grubbed up, I should have to provide a robust fence.
§ Mr. NabarroWhy does my right hon. Friend continue to equivocate in this matter? Does his reply mean that his policy will be to continue the hedge or otherwise?
§ Mr. EcclesI want to give public opinion a further chance to express itself.
§ Mr. TilneyIs my right hon. Friend aware that, although these trees, which are out of keeping with our tradition, have since the war been endeavouring to shut in the natural grandeur of one of the loveliest of parks, these rows of yew are now bedraggled, unkempt and frequently split, and lack all formal unity?