§ Mr. Charles Morrisonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment why he has refused permission for the holding of pop concerts in Hyde Park in 1973.
§ Mr. ChannonIn dealing with suggestions for holding events in Royal Parks, I have to pay particular attention to the character of the parks, as well as to the demand for specialised events. In 1972 the two concerts permitted did not take place because of competition from similar events. I understand that this year 17 concerts are likely to be held in places in London more appropriate for them than a Royal Park, where naturally the holding of a pop concert can give rise to a number of complaints and difficulties, and therefore I decided it was not necessary to hold pop concerts this year in Hyde Park.
I have received very few representations indeed about this matter, but if it can be shown that there is a genuine and substantial public demand for the holding of such concerts in Hyde Park I will naturally be prepared to review this decision. In any case, I will of course review the matter again next year; and will keep in touch with the Advisory Committee on Pop Festivals.
§ Mr. Charles Morrisonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what 377W applications he has received for permission to use Hyde Park for pop concerts in 1973; and what he said in his replies.
§ Mr. ChannonOne, suggesting four concerts. The applicants were informed that it had been decided not to give concerts in Hyde Park this year.
§ Mr. Charles Morrisonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he sought the advice of the Advisory Committee on Pop Festivals before making his decision on pop concerts in Hyde Park.
§ Mr. ChannonNo. The advisory committee is producing a code of practice to be followed when a festival is held. This is a different question from whether a particular concert should be held in a Royal Park. Nevertheless I am anxious to maintain close links with the committee about the future course of events in Hyde Park.