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New franchise for New Lantao Bus approved
The Governor-in-Council today (Tuesday) approved in principle the terms of a new franchise for New Lantao Bus Company (1973) Limited (NLB) which would confer upon the company the right to operate a public bus service on eight routes for 10 years from April 1, 1997.
"Having regard to NLB's performance, and considering a longer franchise will enable the company to plan ahead and to secure the financial support of the banking sector for its investment, we have recommended that a franchise with a period of 10 years be granted to NLB", a government spokesman said.
He said a number of changes and several new provisions were incorporated into the new franchise, including a new requirement for a mid-term review.
"The mid-term review is to be conducted after the fourth year of the new franchise.
"Based on the results of such a review, the Governor-in-Council may, if the need arises, and with the consent of NLB, amend the terms of the franchise." he said.
He emphasised that the new provisions would enhance the Administration's role in monitoring NLB's services.
Since this was a major franchise straddling 1997, the Chinese side would be consulted before the actual award of the franchise, the spokesman added.
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Funding for seven language projects awarded
The Director of Education and Trustee of the Language Fund, Mrs Helen C P Lai Yu, today (Tuesday) approved funds about $5.29 million for seven language improvement projects in the second round of the Fund's fourth allocation exercise.
Successful applications are a cross-language, four Chinese (including Putonghua) and two English language projects.
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