Mr. Shawcross:

asked the Minister of Works why no steps have been taken to repair the potholes caused by the frost in the roadway in St. James' Park, especially near the Horse Guards; and how much longer this road will be left in its present dangerous condition.

The road across the Horse Guards Parade from the Mall to Birdcage Walk is to be entirely resurfaced this summer. In the meantime any potholes considered dangerous to traffic are being patched up.

Mr. Shawcross:

Would it not be better if these and similar roads were given over to the Westminster City Council or at least the responsibility for their repair be farmed out to that authority?

I see no reason to believe that at all.

Will the right hon. Gentleman have a look at some of the potholes in Bird Cage Walk as well?