§ 36. Sir Anthony Royleasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what consultations have been held on the proposal that Richmond Park is to be used for a large 210W meeting to be addressed by the Pope in 1982; if such a plan has been agreed; what is to be the date and time of the meeting and the area of the park planned for the assembly, the action he will take to safeguard the deer and the environment and the length of time that the park will be closed for public access prior to the meeting and after the meeting; and whether the park has ever been used for a large meeting in the past.
§ Mr. MonroRichmond Park is one of a number of sites being considered for an open air Mass to be celebrated by the Pope during his proposed pastoral visit to Great Britain in May 1982. When a decision has been reached on which site should be used, an announcement will be made giving details. My hon. Friend can be assured that all the aspects of his questions are readily appreciated and are being taken into account in reaching a decision.
The park has not to my knowledge been used for a gathering of this kind and expected size before.