HC Deb 19 May 1953 vol 515 cc1868-9
41. Dr. King

asked the Minister of Works how long he proposes to leave London's Coronation decorations set up by his Department.

Mr. Eccles

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Brighton, Pavilion (Mr. Teeling) on 17th March.

Dr. King

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that lots of folk in the provinces will be bringing parties to London after the Coronation in order to see the decorations? Will he not only keep his own part of the decorations up as long as possible, but use his influence with the rest of London to do the same?

Mr. Eccles

One has to balance the desire of visitors who are coming to see the decorations with the fact that some of the decorations obscure Westminster Abbey and other historical buildings. I think that by 22nd June, when we intend to start taking them down, the decorations will be slightly the worse for the weather.

Lieut-Colonel Lipton

Will the right hon. Gentleman enter into consultation with the police authorities so that the public may know (a) how long these decorations are to be in position and (b) to what extent access is to be provided in those thoroughfares to coach parties, many of which will be touring the streets during the period of the decorations?

Mr. Eccles

Yes, Sir. They will be displayed until 22nd June. The question of coach parties is under consultation with the police.