HL Deb 14 July 1998 vol 592 cc15-6WA
Lord Brougham and Vaux

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the hot dog vendors outside Buckingham Palace, in the Mall and in St James's Park have licences to trade; if not, why they are allowed to trade illegally; and what action is being taken to stop this trade. [HL2531]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey

Two kiosks are authorised to sell convenience food in St James's Park, along with the mobile ice cream sellers; these are clearly marked as licensed Royal Parks traders. The others are not licensed.

The problem of illegal trading in the Royal Parks has worsened since the surrounding local authorities obtained the power to seize the outlets and vehicles used by these traders. The Royal Parks Constabulary, who are responsible for the locations referred to, do not have these powers.

To address this problem, my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport is seeking an opportunity to bring forward amendments to the Parks Regulations (Amendment) Act to give the Royal Parks Constabulary the necessary powers.