HC Deb 14 November 1966 vol 736 cc14-5
22. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Land and Natural Resources what encouragement he is giving the National Parks Commission to establish park centres in each of the national parks.

Mr. Willey

The National Parks Commission is well aware of the need to stimulate and co-ordinate education in national park centres and of the contribution which national park centres could make. The Lake District National Park Planning Board this year acquired Brock-hole on Lake Windermere for use as a picnicking area and day centre for visitors.

The buildings will later be used as a day centre for visitors where information will be provided about the national parks, natural history and other matters covered by Section 86 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act, 1949.

Mr. Blenkinsop

While welcoming my right hon. Friend's Answer, may I ask whether he can do something in conjunction with his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Science to encourage a centre of this kind in every national park?

Mr. Willey

Certainly. I am sure that my hon. Friend will pay regard to what is being done in the Lake District, which, I hope, will set an example.