To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will review the (a) legislative and (b) administrative requirements for Tower Bridge to be raised on demand for the passage of vessels. (268996)

Under the 1885 Corporation of London (Tower Bridge) Act the Corporation is responsible for the administration and operation of Tower Bridge. The Act states that priority must be given to vessels and it is for the Corporation to decide whether to review these requirements.

Bridge operators are aware of the impact bridge lifts have upon local traffic and work to minimise disruption. Certain strict criteria must be met before vessels are allowed to pass through the bridge.