§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what proportion of freight facilities grant was applied to inland waterways in the period since 1 May 1997; and if he will make a statement. [58873]
§ Ms Glenda Jackson23 Freight Facilities Grants totalling some £19 million have been awarded since 1 May 1997. Two of the grants, worth about £240,000, were awarded to inland waterway applicants.
Interest in grant for inland waterway schemes has historically been low. However, recent publicity drives by my Department have resulted in an increased interest in moving freight by inland waterway.
We intend to consult on the details of a scheme to extend, the freight grants regime to coastal and short sea shipping.