Vince Cable

A petition with over 6,000 signatures was presented to the Royal Parks Agency by Vincent Cable MP, Pieter Morpurgo of the Friends of Bushy and Home Parks and other local campaigners.

Vincent Cable said: "There is considerable local feeling on the issue, hence the large protest march in Bushy Park and, now, this very big petition. The Royal Parks have not presented a convincing reason why charges are necessary in Bushy Park. They appear to be confused as to whether their aim is to reduce through-traffic or deal with parking issues which require different approaches. Residents feel, above all, that the tradition of going to the Park to walk, picnic, and relax will now be ended by clockwatching and the constant attention of parking warders.

"I have spoken to the Council Cabinet Member for Parking who makes it clear that, despite misleading press reports, he and the Council are not supporting the proposed charges."