HC Deb 15 July 1969 vol 787 cc397-8
27. Mr. Whitaker

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he will make a statement about the use of London Parks under his control for the giving of pop concerts.

Mr. John Silkin

Permission was given for a small number of "pop" concerts to be held in Hyde Park last year as an experiment. They proved very popular, and the audiences were well behaved. I agreed therefore to allow the experiment to be repeated this summer. The two concerts held so far attracted vast crowds and passed off with only minor incidents. In view of the great pleasure which these concerts afford, particularly to the younger generation, I have decided to allow another concert to be held next month, the last for this year.

Mr. Whitaker

At the last one, which was probably the largest public meeting in London since the days of the Chartists, was not there less hooliganism and litter than at many a football match? But will my right hon. Friend ensure that in future these events are the exception, rather than the rule, because many people go to the parks for peace and quiet?

Mr. Silkin

With regard to the first question, I pay tribute to the young people who attended this enormous concert. At the end of the concert I was most impressed to learn that they had voluntarily helped with the clearing up of litter, and I think they set a great example to their elders.

However, I agree that one can have too much even of a good thing, and that most people go to the parks for relaxation. Perhaps a little of each is the right answer.

Mr. Blaker

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why permission was refused to the Festival of London Stores to hold a parade in Hyde Park this year? Is he aware that his predecessor confirmed in a recent answer that the festival parade which was held last year was very well conducted?

Mr. Silkin

I believe that my predecessor has replied to that question by saying that it was a commercial operation. The "pop" concert was free.