§ Mr. Duncan SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what plans she has to change the arrangements for boarding up the fountains in Trafalgar square for the new year's eve celebrations. [4915]
§ Mr. SproatSince 1983, when the decision was taken to board up the fountains in Trafalgar square on new year's eve on the ground of public safety, the policing of the event has altered significantly with a great emphasis on the use of police cordons. For the past two years the police have cordoned off the central area of Trafalgar square including the column and fountains. I have therefore decided—in consultation with the police—not to board up the fountains for this new year's eve celebrations.