§ Mr. HardyTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment (1) what action is to be taken to ensure that boats are not moored in a position which impairs access to locks on navigable waterways; [38198]
(2) if he will ensure that mooring bollards on navigable waterways which are placed close to locks occupy such a position as will allow crew members to drop ropes upon them without the need to leave their vessels especially when such siting is conducive to safety. [38201]
§ Mr. Robert B. JonesThese are matters for the navigation authority responsible for regulating activities on the waterway concerned.
§ Mr. HardyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what assessment he has made of the extent to which policies of his Department are designed to promote the movement of freight on inland waterways. [38199]
§ Mr. JonesGovernment policy is that we wish to see maximum use made of inland waterways for freight 729W transport, but that this must be subject to commercial judgment. Freight hauliers should be free to choose the mode of transport best suited to their needs. The Department draws attention, where appropriate, to the potential of water for the carriage of freight, and grants that are available.
§ Mr. HardyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what assessment he has made of whether dredging operations upon commercial waterways are at a level which will ensure effective and continuing use. [38202]
§ Mr. JonesThe Department has made no assessment of dredging operations upon commercial waterways. This is the responsibility of the navigation authorities concerned.
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