2
2.
3.
4.
b.
experience they have had, they can rightly be called "experts" in this business. (Sing Tao Jih Pao 10.5.73, Fai Po 16.5.73).
On the other hand, the British consortium which wants to take over the two bus companies has hardly any experience in dealing with the public transport of modern cities, and we do not believe that it can create "miracles" in solving the transport problem when it takes over the two bus companies. (Tai Po 16.5.73)
The operators' willingness to make improvements:
a.
Like other members of the public, we are dissatisfied with the present services provided by the two bus companies.
(Sing Tao Jih Pao 15.5.73, Fai Pao 16.5.73)
For example,
b. However, there are certain facts which we must bear in mind.
ever since 1967, the two bus companies have been doing all they can to maintain public transport services. The bus drivers' strike in 1967 followed by the legalisation of the public light bus have dealt a heavy blow to the bus companies, and yet they tried to overcome their difficulties. In recent years, we have all noticed the improvement they have made in their service. We trust that the bus companies are willing to make improvements but on the other hand, there are many difficulties that have to be overcomed. If we can extend their franchises, perhaps they will be able to carry out their plans. (Sing Tao Jih Pao 15.5.73).
c.
The two bus companies said that they have special staff to deal with suggestions and compalints made by the newspapers. This shows that they do not ignore public opinion. (Fai Po 16.5.73).
Problems which may arise therefrom:
a.
C.
Should
If the Government abolishes their franchises, the present share-holders of the two bus companies will suffer heavy losses. the Government compensate them?
If so,
Is this fair? it has to spend much of tax- payers' money and will the tax-payers agree to this?
If the bus companies are operated by a foreign consortium, more racial disputes would result and these 27 certainly not to the advantage of Hong Kong.
The take-over, which will be very similar to the Hong Kong Land-Dairy Farm battle, will cause another storm in Hong Kong's stock market.
Ulterior motives behind the take-over:
2.
b.
Foreign consortiums invest in Hong Kong for one purpose only and that is to absorb the money of Hong Kong's citizens. In the past year or so, they have already absorbed more than $4,000 million from Hong Kong on shares alone, and they are now trying to play the same trick by taking over the bus companies. (Sing Tao Jih Fo 10.5.73 and 15.5.73, Wah Kiu Yat Po 16.5.73).
As reported, the malicious plot of the British consortium comprises three parts:
(i) To "absorb" the two bus companies;
(ii)
(iii)
To take over other marine public transport organisations; and To abolish public light buses and control lorries.
13.