§ Sir Eldon Griffithsasked the Lord Privy Seal if it is intended to cut down the trees in New Palace Yard adjoining Parliament street.
§ Mr. BiffenA recommendation that the catalpa trees in New Palace Yard should be replaced was first made by the Services Committee in 1982 (First Report, 1981–82, HC485), on the advice of the Department of the Environment and the Bailiff of the Royal Parks. In that report the Services Committee sought the views of Members on the type of replacement trees to be planted; and the Accommodation and Administration Sub-Committee subsequently resolved in favour of replacement by catalpas. Because of financial constraints and the activities of the stone restoration contractors, it has not so far been possible to undertake the work; but I understand that provision for this purpose has been in the parliamentary works programme 1986–87 and that it is intended to carry out felling and replanting in autumn 1986.