HC Deb 28 January 1981 vol 997 cc419-20W
Mr. Parry

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will list in the Official Report the bodies which have made representations against the recent proposed increases in public bus fares in Hong Kong.

Mr. Blaker

A list is being obtained from Hong Kong. I shall let the hon. Member have a reply as soon as possible.

Mr. Parry

asked the Lord Privy Seal what machinery exists in Hong Kong for making objections against public bus fare increases.

Mr. Blaker

A transport complaints unit exists to consider all such objections. The unit reports to the Transport Advisory Committee, which is examining the applications for fare increases. Other established channels may also be used, for instance, representations to the unofficial members of the Executive and Legislative Councils.

Mr. Parry

asked the Lord Privy Seal what is the proposed percentage increase in the fare increase in public bus fares in Hong Kong; what was the last percentage increase; and on what date this was implemented.

Mr. Blaker

The Kowloon Motor Bus Company Ltd. has proposed fare increases ranging from 33 per cent. to 100 per cent. The China Motor Bus Company Ltd. has proposed increases of between 33 per cent. and 40 per cent. The last fare increases were implemented on 3 February 1980 and averaged 60 per cent.: thus, for example, the fare for the main urban routes rose from 30 cents—approximately 2.5p—to 50 cents—approximately 4p.

Mr. Parry

asked the Lord Privy Seal what discussions have taken place with unofficial members of the Executive and Legislative Councils concerning proposed increases in public bus fares in Hong Kong.

Mr. Blaker

There have been discussions beween the administration and the public relations and transport panels of the unofficial members of the executive and legislative councils. The Executive Council will be consulted further before any decision is taken.