HC Deb 14 March 1961 vol 636 cc1183-4
25. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs by what authority Pan American World Airways have been authorised to place the sign over their offices in Piccadilly; and what steps he is taking to prevent the further damage to amenity consequent upon a proliferation of such signs.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Sir Keith Joseph)

The Westminster City Council has given express consent for the display of this sign. My right hon. Friend is satisfied that the Control of Advertisements Regulations provide sufficient powers to control the display of illuminated signs.

Mr. Shepherd

If this sign is approximately as long as this Chamber and almost as deep as the depth under the Gallery, does the hon. Gentleman think that if signs of this type and size were proliferated along Piccadilly they would add to the amenity of the district?

Sir K. Joseph

That is a hypothetical question. My hon. Friend is exaggerating. My right hon. Friend feels that the local authorities who control these matters are exercising their responsibilities properly.