HC Deb 10 March 1970 vol 797 cc1108-9
33. Mr. Strauss

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he has arranged for illumination of appropriate areas of St. James's Park during the summer months; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Silkin

I am examining whether money can be found for some illuminations in St. James's Park in the next financial year.

Mr. Strauss

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the doubt he expresses in his reply is very disturbing, in view of the hope he expressed to me six months ago, in answer to a Question, that this illumination would be undertaken. As the total cost cannot be more than £2,000 or £3,000, it would be deplorable, because of petty reasons of economy, to stop the transformation of the park into something beautiful at night.

Mr. Silkin

It was not economy that I had in mind at that moment. I was thinking that there were a number of birds, feathered and otherwise, who at certain hours might not appreciate illumination.

Dr. Winstanley

Would the right hon. Gentleman arrange to illuminate certain parts of this building in which the lighting is what is described as restful? In other words, it is very good for going to sleep in, but not so good for doing any work.

Mr. Silkin

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will write to me about that matter.