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The Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) discussed at their meeting today (November 22) the review of the basis for considering bus fare adjustment and applications from Citybus Limited (concerning its franchise on the Hong Kong and cross-harbour routes), New Lantao Company (1973) Limited and Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933) Limited for the granting of new franchises for 10 years which will take effect upon the expiry of their current franchises in 2006 and 2007.
"The TAC has discussed and offered its views on the Administration's review on the basis for considering bus fare adjustment. Members are of the view that the proposal is an improvement over the past arrangement. In particular, it will facilitate bus fares to go upward and downward to provide greater responsiveness to the prevailing economic conditions and improve objectivity of fare adjustment process," TAC Chairman Ms Cheng Yeuk-wah said after the meeting.
The TAC noted that the public had raised concern over the fare reduction for long and medium distance routes that would be implemented on an advanced payment day-return basis. Members hoped that the bus companies would consider whether there would be more flexibility in this arrangement and respond positively.
The TAC has also discussed and commented on the three bus companies' applications for new franchises having regard to relevant factors including the bus companies' performance and their ability to provide proper and efficient service.
"We understand that the Administration will take into account TAC's views in making recommendations to the Executive Council for a decision in January 2006," Ms Cheng said.
The TAC was also briefed on the special traffic and transport arrangements to be implemented during the Sixth Ministerial Conference (MC6) of the World Trade Organisation which would be held from December 13 to 18, 2005.
Ms Cheng said, "We take note of the various special traffic and transport arrangements to be implemented during the MC6 period. We understand that the Transport Department will step up the monitoring of the traffic conditions and transport services, and will inform the public of any special traffic arrangements through the mass media and other suitable channels."
"We hope that, with the Government's efforts and public cooperation, the inconvenience caused to the general public can be minimised," Ms Cheng added.
Ends/Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Issued at HKT 19:39
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