HC Deb 14 April 1970 vol 799 cc1190-1
8. Mr. Strauss

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he has now completed his examination into the illumination of appropriate areas of St. James's Park.

Mr. John Silkin

Yes, Sir. I intend this summer to start work on illumination in the park, and a scheme is now being prepared.

Mr. Strauss

Approximately what area will be illuminated? Will my right hon. Friend be certain to employ illumination experts, since if this is done badly it will be poor, and if it is done well it might be beautiful?

Mr. Silkin

The effort being put into it is designed to produce a really worth-while scheme. The effect will almost certainly be concentrated on the lake.

Sir D. Renton

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that the illuminations will not disturb the remarkable bird life in the park?

Mr. Silkin

I share with the right hon. and learned Gentleman the feeling that it would be unwise for birds to get lit up in St. James's Park at any time—and particularly during the breeding season.