§ Mr. VazTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will make a statement on the Government's policy in respect of the upkeep and maintenance of London's royal parks. [20933]
§ Mr. Tom ClarkeThe upkeep and maintenance of the royal parks is the responsibility of the Royal Parks Agency under its Chief Executive, David Welch, which was established as an Executive Agency of my Department on 1 April 1993.
The Agency's main aims are set out in its Framework Document, copies of which have been placed in the Library. They are to manage and police the Royal Parks so that they offer peaceful enjoyment, recreation and entertainment to those who use them; they are enhanced, protected and preserved for the benefit of this and future generations; and they are managed with efficiency and effectiveness and in accordance with the principles of public service as set out in the Citizens Charter.
The objectives of the Agency include sustaining high standards of horticulture and design; attracting an increased range of visitors through publications, publicity, talks and local events; ensuring visitor safety; protecting the parks from every kind of encroachment contrary to their purpose; procuring, organising and monitoring all services in ways which ensure value for money; conserving buildings in the Parks that are of special architectural or historic interest, and meeting financial and other performance targets.
408WThe detailed management strategy is set out in the Agency's Corporate Plan, which is approved by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State each year.