HC Deb 21 November 1957 vol 578 cc543-4
14. Mr. Lipton

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department to what extent there was less dislocation of traffic during the Lord Mayor's procession on 9th November last, compared with previous years.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I am informed by the Commissioners of Police for the City of London and of the Metropolis that the dislocation of traffic was notably less than in recent years.

Mr. Lipton

Is it not obvious that having the Lord Mayor's Show on Saturday was more fun for the children and gave less cause for cursing among adults on their lawful business? Therefore, will not the Home Secretary enter into some discussions with the authorities concerned about the little bit of legislation required to ensure that the Lord Mayor's Show takes place on the first or second Saturday in November? Experience has shown that Saturday is the best day for the job.

Mr. Butler

It is the tradition that the Lord Mayor's Show is held on the day when he goes to take the oath at the Law Courts, namely, 9th November, which this year fell on a Saturday. I am certainly ready to discuss this matter, but I think that it would be rather difficult to depart from tradition.

Hon. Members

Why?

Mr. Lipton

Cannot the Home Secretary establish another tradition?

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