HL Deb 18 July 2000 vol 615 cc75-6WA
Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they consider that the military occupation, in connection with the Royal Tattoo, of the eastern part of St James' Park was necessary or justified; whether civilian interests (other than the Royal Park) were consulted in advance; and whether the Royal Parks will be fully compensated for any damage done. [HL3186]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The use of parts of St James's Park in connection with the Royal Military Tattoo 2000 (RMT 2000) has been arranged with the full permission of the Royal Parks, granted at ministerial level. The park provides space to house support facilities required for the event which are not available on Horse Guards Parade. The RMT 2000 project team work closely with Royal Parks, Westminster City Council and the Metropolitan Police to ensure that health and safety regulations are adhered to, and that inconvenience to the public is kept to a minimum. The Royal Parks have granted the Ministry of Defence (MoD) permission to use Horse Guards Parade and allotted areas of St James's Park in return for a licence fee. In addition, MoD is responsible for fair and reasonable reinstatement costs in respect of any damage which can be attributed to RMT 2000's use of those areas.