Mr Robert Buckland (South Swindon) (Con)

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I present a petition signed by Swindon residents and visitors to our town centre. It is made in respect of established street traders. [Interruption.]

Mr Speaker

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Order. It is rather discourteous. There is a lot of noise, including that being made by a Government Whip, who unaccountably is not staying to hear the presentation of the petition; I cannot imagine why. If Members are leaving the Chamber, I feel sure that they will do so quickly and quietly. [Interruption.] We are grateful to the Whip on duty for toddling back to his place to hear the presentation of the petition.

Mr Buckland

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I am grateful, Mr Speaker.

The future role of established street traders in the life of Swindon town centre is supported by no fewer than 4,371 signatories. The prayer reads as follows:

Wherefore your Petitioners pray that your Honourable House urges the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government to request that Swindon Borough Council review its policy on street trading in Swindon town centre.

Following is the full text of the petition:

[The Humble Petition of Swindon residents and visitors,

Sheweth that there is support for the street traders of Swindon town centre; that street traders add to the vibrancy of Swindon town centre; and that the future of street trading must be placed on a secure footing.

Wherefore your Petitioners pray that your Honourable House urges the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government to request that Swindon Borough Council review its policy on street trading in Swindon town centre

And your Petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray, &c.]

[P000963]