(b)
2
growth in the economy and real income which
results in an increase in the demand for taxi
services; and
(c) the supply of new licences.
Although the survey results do not provide any direct
evidence that speculation is a major factor, this element
cannot be ruled out entirely when free trading takes place
and the supply of new licences is limited.
The TAC Sub-Committee is examining all feasible
improvements to the current method of issuing taxi
licences.
Appropriate recommendations will be made to
strengthen and improve the current system now in operation.
However, I should point out that our primary concern is the
general quality of taxi service to the public and the
efficiency of our overall transport system in serving the
community. It is important to note that both the quality
and cost of taxi service in Hong Kong are generally
satisfactory.
Even supposing there is speculation it is not
having an obvious effect on the service offered to the
public.