§ Mr. AmessTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has received on the more effective use of the River Thames for commuters and freight. [92474]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonThe Government are committed to realising the potential of the River Thames as a transport artery. Our Thames 2000 initiative aims to revitalise passenger transport on the River through a programme of new piers and services and the establishment of London River Services Ltd. as the River arm of London Transport. We are also looking to maintain 331W and increase use of the River for transporting freight, including through planning policies and the award of freight facilities grants.
In connection with these and other initiatives, my Department is in regular contact with a wide range of people and organisations who wish to see fuller use of the Thames for passenger and freight transport.