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The Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) discussed today (January 15) the application for fare increase from the Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933) Limited (KMB).
The TAC Chairman, Mr Larry Kwok, said the TAC, in deliberating KMB's application, had considered and balanced the basket of factors under the Fare Adjustment Arrangement for franchised buses as approved by the Executive Council in 2006. These factors include public acceptability and affordability, service performance of the bus company and the past and forecast financial performance of the company, as well as a supportable fare increase rate computed for reference through a formula making reference to changes in the Composite Consumer Price Index and wage index.
"Similar to other fare increase applications, the TAC will submit its recommendation to the Government for consideration by the Executive Council," Mr Kwok said.
TAC members were also briefed on the Administration's proposal to provide new "stop-and-go" e-payment facilities at all manual toll booths of government tolled tunnels/roads.
Members noted that under the proposal, e-payment facilities accepting payment by contactless smart cards would be installed at all manual toll booths of the seven government tolled tunnels/roads.
The Administration also proposes that after the new e-payment facilities are installed at the manual toll booths, such booths will continue to accept toll payment by cash or pre-paid toll ticket.
Members noted the Administration's plan to consult the Legislative Council Panel on Transport on its proposal in the first half of 2013.
"Members welcome the Administration's proposal, which will enhance the convenience of motorists," Mr Kwok said.
Ends/Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Issued at HKT 19:18
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