HC Deb 03 November 1930 vol 244 cc501-2W
Mr. O. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether any tests have been made recently to ascertain the amount of mud on the bottom of the Serpentine in the bathing area; whether this is free from harmful debris; whether there have been any accidents to bathers through sharp or similar material embedded in the bed of the lake; and whether he proposes to investigate the possibility of improving these conditions?

Mr. LANSBURY

Investigations made before the introduction of mixed bathing showed that, as far as the standing depth necessary for the average bather, the bed consisted of gravel without mud. No tests have been made beyond this depth. A few minor cases of injury have been reported. The bed, near the edge of the bathing area, was thoroughly raked before mixed bathing was allowed and raking is carried out from time to time as considered necessary. I do not consider that any further action is needed.

Mr. SOMERVILLE

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether any extra boats have been employed on the Serpentine since the inception of the new bathing facilities; and, if so, the number and ownership of such extra boats and the cost involved to His Majesty's Office of Works?

Mr. LANSBURY

Two boats have been purchased by my Department at a cost of £30. The cost of manning the four boats, two of which are provided by the Royal Humane Society, is £21 a week.

Mr. SOMERVILLE

asked the First Commissioner of Works the average number of male bathers who used to bathe daily in the Serpentine in the spring and summer months and the daily average number of male and female bathers respectively, who have taken advantage of the new daily bathing facilities in the Serpentine?

Mr. LANSBURY

No records are available of the number of male bathers using the Serpentine prior to the introduction of mixed bathing, nor of those using the area since set apart for the free use of male bathers. The average daily admissions on payment since mixed bathing commenced have been 1,138, but no record is kept of the proportion of male and female bathers.