§ 5. Mr. Blakerasked the Minister of Public Building and Works why permission was refused for the inaugural parade of the Festival of London Stores to be held in Hyde Park on 26th May.
§ Mr. MellishPermission was refused because it is my policy, as it was my predecessors', to preserve the Royal parks as places where the public at large can enjoy reasonable peace and quiet in a rural atmosphere. I am also concerned to safeguard the parks from exploitation for commercial purposes.
§ Mr. BlakerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the parade was held in Hyde Park last year, I understand successfully? Will he confirm that the reason for the refusal this year had nothing to do with any allegation of mismanagement of the parade last year?
§ Mr. MellishThe hon. Gentleman is absolutely right and I give him that assurance. Those concerned have a first-class reputation. A precedent was set in this matter last year. That is the trouble with giving permission of this sort. Once granted, a precedent is set. Last year permission was given to create good will for tourism and exports. I suppose that, permission having been given, it was inevitable that people would want the same the following year. Once permission is given to one commercial concern it is thought that it must be given to others, and that I am not prepared to accept.