§ 1. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Works if he is aware that visitors to London are forbidden to take personal photographs in the Royal Parks by means of a camera mounted on a tripod although the use of a hand camera is permitted; and if he will amend this regulation.
§ The Minister of Works (Sir David Eccles)The taking of photographs with a stand camera is not forbidden in the Royal Parks, but a permit is required. The purpose of this old regulation is to help in the control of commercial photography. I am considering, as part of a general review of parks regulations, how this control could be maintained without interference with amateur photographers.
§ Mr. DoddsI thank the right hon. Gentleman for agreeing to look at the matter again, but does he appreciate that it is a bit of a nuisance for visitors to have to apply for permits? Is he aware that many commercial people have applied for permits and have gained admission very easily, so that what he seeks to avoid is not prevented by this method?
§ Sir D. EcclesThe matter does want looking at again.