§ LORD CHESHAMasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will make arrangements to consult interested organisations before making proposals to restrict the facilities available in the Royal Parks for use by motor vehicles; and
Why they have decided to close the Mall to motor traffic from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays without any consultation with organisations representing the interest of vehicle users.
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF PUBLIC BUILDING AND WORKS (LORD WINTERBOTTOM)It is the usual practice of my right honourable friend, when considering measures affecting motor vehicles in the Royal Parks, to consult the appropriate traffic authorities. Full consultations were held about the experimental closing of the Mall, on Sundays over the next two months, with the Ministry of Transport. the Greater London Council, the Westminster City Council and the Police, none of whom opposed the experiment. It is my impression that the experiment has already been widely appreciated 509WA and acclaimed. Before deciding on permanent arrangements, my right honourable friend will be ready to take into account any representations made to him by organisations representing motor vehicle users, as well as on behalf of pedestrians, amenity interests, and any others affected.