§ Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) if the public right of way through Downing street has been extinguished; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Chope[holding answer 8 January 1990]: Access to Downing street is controlled under police common law powers which allow them to take reasonable steps to preserve the peace and prevent threats to it.
The present barriers at the Whitehall entrance to Downing street which the demountable gate will replace have been in place since 1982.
§ Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment on what basis the decision was taken to erect railings in Downing street; and who made the recommendation for their erection.
§ Mr. Chope[holding answer 8 January 1990]: The purpose of the new demountable gateway is to enhance the security of Downing street. It is not the Government's practice to comment on such security measures.
§ Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what was the cost to public funds of all works associated with the erection of railings at the Whitehall end of Downing street.
§ Mr. Chope[holding answer 8 January 1990]: It is not the Government's practice to comment on the costing of individual security measures.
§ Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment which authority gave planning permission for the erection of railings at the Whitehall end of Downing street; what notice was given to interested parties; and whether any objections were received.
§ Mr. Chope[holding answer 8 January 1990]: Normal procedures under DOE circular 18/84 were followed, including consultation with English Heritage and the Royal Fine Art Commission. Proposals were submitted to Westminster city council in May 1989; amended in September following consultations, and approved by letter dated 4 October.