§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what proposals he has to promote non-road based methods of waste transportation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NorrisThe transport of waste is treated no differently from that of other commodities. We encourage the use of rail and water where practicable. Our enhancement of the freight facilities grant scheme and new track charges grant may help to divert some more waste from being moved throughout by road. I am chairing a group that is examining the scope for making more use of the River Thames for both passenger and freight transport. In addition my Department is considering more generally how best to encourage greater use of inland and coastal water transport.