Written question asked by Lord Stoddart of Swindon (Independent Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Brabazon of Tara (Non-affiliated) on Tuesday, 1 November 2011.

Abingdon Green

Question: To ask the Chairman of Committees whether, following the completion of improvement works on Abingdon Green, it will be designated as an area for public enjoyment; and whether there will be any restrictions on outside broadcasts from the site.

Answer: Abingdon Green is private property, owned by the House of Commons. However, Black Rod is responsible for the utilisation of, and access to, Abingdon Green. It is intended that on completion of the maintenance works, Abingdon Green will again be open to public access and enjoyment as it has been in the recent past, although public access will, as before, be permissive and conditional in character. It will also continue to be available to the media, under the control of Black Rod, and there is no intention to alter the well established arrangements for managing this.

Secondary information