I've read the attached info, Ned, Gordon. Interesting. I think the National Trust gets too big for its boots sometimes - I'm a member, but think they forget their origins. They were originally set up by Act of Parliament to take into care for the Nation, properties that could no longer be maintained by their owners, or properties that were handed to the Nation in lieu of taxes, death duties etc. And also by bequest, properties and areas of outstanding beauty or interest. Like any quango they now overreach themselves. We as citizens, are the Nation on whose behalf they they look after OUR collective properties. The Bye-law they quote is designed to deal with the offence of Hawking on national trust property. Hawkers and Pedlars were originally dealt with under the Vagrancy Acts of around 1815, and were still in force in the sixties. Now we have got rid of rogues, vagabonds, incorrigible rogues etc so if challenged I think they may find the ridicule rather uncomfortable. I have taken pictures in NT properties, and have arranged for my old photographic society to do the same. I agreed with their no tripod rule and have always found that a polite letter in advance works wonders. It's some years ago now but we also sent them copies of photographs for their use. If they try to enforce this one however I think they may find they have grabbed a tiger by the tail. Perhaps if enough member get together and attend the AGM further pressure can be bought to bear.
|