(c)
the unsatisfactory way the scheme operates
(d)
the necessity to establish a consistent policy covering all public transport concerns.
D
There is a further and more pressing reason, namely that CMB has notified the Commissioner for Transport that it is unwilling to operate the subsidy scheme after the end of the current academic year (July 1979). The process of printing and distributing tickets for the September term would normally commence by 1st July. A copy of the Company's letter is at Annex D.
E
G.S. 166
15
In addition, it should be noted that the situation vis-a-vis the bus companies, those most affected, has changed in two significant ways since 1971:
(a)
(b)
The Companies which were at that time in financial difficulties are now in a very healthy position, as indicated in Annex E. (This should not, however, be taken to imply that the companies are making excessive profits since the average net fixed assets have increased considerably since 1971).
The Ordinances under which the companies then operated have been replaced by the Public Omnibus Services Ordinance (Chapter 230) under which franchises have been granted to KMB and CMB. Section 13 of the Ordinance by its control over fares enables the imposition of a concession scheme by the Governor in Council and this right may be exercised through section 12 of the franchises granted to CMB and KMB. no such provision exists now for HKT).
Proposed guidelines
16
(Although
It is proposed that the following principles be used as the basis of future policy on student fare concessions:
(a)
(b)
A student fare concession should apply so far as possible to all transport routes and systems throughout the Territory.
It should be granted by the public transport
concerns as a part of the overall fare structure and
funded from passenger and transport services revenue.
CONFIDENTIAL #Z
機密