HC Deb 13 July 1993 vol 228 cc420-1W
Mr. Stern

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list the statute or statutes under which there is a right of navigation of the River Avon in Bristol for any vessel which has paid harbour duties.

Mr. Norris

In general, there is a public right of navigation on tidal rivers. Section 33 of the Harbours, Docks and Piers Clauses Act 1847, relating to free access for the public to harbour, dock and pier on payment of rates, is applied to shipping using the Port of Bristol by the relevant special Acts and subsequent orders relating to the port.