HC Deb 11 November 1952 vol 507 cc741-2
8. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Minister of Works how many licences have been granted to sell bird food and take photographs in Trafalgar Square.

Mr. Eccles

There are three licences in force for photography and two for corn selling.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Is the Minister aware that, by restricting so severely the licences for trading in Trafalgar Square, he has created a very valuable monopoly for a tiny number of privileged persons that will be worth about £30 a week during the Coronation period. Will the Minister look at some of the applications of ex-Service men whom he has turned out of the Square with little or no justification?

Mr. Eccles

There are still 500 summonses outstanding against unlicensed photographers. Until those summonses have been dealt with, I am not satisfied that I should increase the number of licences for photography. When I have got the position clear, I may do so.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Does that mean that the right hon. Gentleman gives the House an undertaking that when all this litigation is disposed of he will have another look at the matter?

Mr. Eccles

indicated assent.

Mr. I. O. Thomas

Will the Minister indicate how many prosecutions he desires before he is satisfied that there is sufficient evidence for an increase in the number of photographers?

Mr. Eccles

I do not desire prosecutions; the police instigate them.

Mr. Godber

Can my right hon. Friend say whether he has had any protests in respect of this from any of the pigeons?