§ 3. Sir W. Wakefieldasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if, in view of the great public need for additional public road facilities to the west of Hyde Park, he will make arrangements with the Crown Estate lessees by purchase or compensation or otherwise, to enable the Kensington Palace private road to be used for public purposes.
Mr. AmoryThe Crown Estate Commissioners informed me that the action 193 desired by my hon. Friend would require legislation and the payment of substantial compensation. They are strongly opposed to such action and I support their view.
The traffic aspects of the Question are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport.
§ Sir W. WakefieldIs not my right hon. Friend aware that there is great congestion at the western end of Hyde Park right from Marble Arch to Church Street, Kensington, and, except for one road at the western end of Hyde Park, there is no means of north-south communication other than this private road? Surely it would be a great public advantage if this road could be turned from private to public use?
Mr. AmoryMy right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport will no doubt read what my hon. Friend has said.