§ 7. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Works in how many instances, where his Department is responsible, fences have been replaced or provided around parks or open spaces in London that previously were unfenced; and for what reason this was done.
§ Mr. MolsonThe fencing around Primrose Hill was removed in 1929, and during the war almost all the boundary railings and fences around the Royal 1023 Parks were removed for scrap. All these fences have now been replaced. In 1948 a hedge and fence was placed around Grosvenor Square, which had previously been unenclosed.
This has been done to protect the parks and open spaces from damage, and to help in maintaining law and order.
§ Mr. SorensenWould not the Minister agree that, unless there are serious views to the contrary, we want to minimise the number of fences as much as possible so that we may have the full advantage of the aesthetic amenities of these areas?
§ Mr. MolsonWe have had experience of the parks being completely open for some time, and experience showed that it was desirable that fences should be put round. During the day, if there are no fences, people are much inclined to walk across the turf and to destroy it. However, the much more serious thing is that we find it necessary to close nearly all the parks at night because of considerations of public decency.
§ Mr. LiptonIs the Minister satisfied that by restoring the railings round the Royal Parks he has increased law and order in the areas concerned?
§ Mr. MolsonAs everybody knows, the position is not at all satisfactory. If the parks were not closed at night, the position would be still more unsatisfactory.