§ 15. Mr. Peter M. Jacksonasked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he will take steps to ensure that all tree work undertaken in parks under his care is in accordance with British Standard 3998: 1966.
§ Mr. LoughlinWe already do so.
§ Mr. JacksonIf that is the case, would my hon. Friend explain the outrageous truncation of a splendid stand of black poplars in St. James's Park, where the work is not being undertaken in conformity with British Standard 3998?
§ Mr. LoughlinThe tree doctoring is done by our labour force or contractors. In each case there is insistence that we abide by the standards. It may well be that the cluster of trees to which my hon. Friend refers has been lopped pretty extensively, but I can assure him that this is prior to felling of the trees, and we have been advised that it is essential that they should be felled.