HL Deb 10 June 1999 vol 601 cc173-4WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by the Lord McIntosh of Haringey on 17 May (WA 3), whether the Royal Parks Agency have carried out environmental impact assessments relating to their plans for substantial commercial activities in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens this summer; and whether they will now require them to publish these assessments in accordance with the Government's "greening" instructions to all agencies. [HL2715]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey

No. The Greening Government Initiative does not require the production or publication of formal environmental impact assessments in relation to short-term events, such as the summer concerts planned for the Royal Parks this year. Nonetheless, the Royal Parks Agency of course takes environmental issues into account in seeking to minimise any disruption to the public or damage to the fabric of the park which might arise from events. Furthermore, the Royal Parks Agency will carry out a review of the environmental effect of this summer's programme of events.