§ Mr. GummerTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (1) what(a) procedure and (b) consultation took place in respect of the closure of the access to Ambassadors entrance to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office; and how long he expects it to be closed; [23595]
(2) when and under what authority an order was placed to close Downing street to public access; what discussions were held with interested parties; and if he will make a statement on (a) the public right of way and (b) the Highways designation in Downing street; [23649]
(3) what public right of way there is to the Ambassadors entrance to the Foreign Office. [23674]
§ Mr. SpellarDowning street is a public highway for which Westminster city council is the highway authority. The road at the Ambassador's entrance is owned by the Royal Parks Agency, and is not a public right of way.
Access to both roads is controlled by the police under common law powers which allow them to take reasonable steps to preserve the peace and prevent threats to it. The level of restriction by the police is constantly under review.