§ Mr. Birchasked the Minister of Public Building and Works how he assesses the public interest when questions of surrendering portions of the Royal Parks to other uses arise.
§ Mr. RipponI consider the arguments on each side of the case, having especial regard to my responsibilities for the Royal Parks and bearing in mind that these are one of the principal glories of London.
Legislation would be required for any major permanent change in the use of the Royal Parks, such as for traffic highways. Minor changes such as the admission of additional classes of vehicles would involve an amendment to the Parks Regulations. The House would thus have an opportunity to assess the public interest in regard to any proposals I might agree to be necessary.