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We will consider whether additional administrative or legislative measures to promote healthy competition are necessary in the light of the findings of these studies. I wish to emphasise that we are adopting a step-by-step and pragmatic approach in the formulation of the frameworks that are most suitable for promoting healthy competition in the different sectors of our economy. At this stage, we are open- minded as to whether comprehensive legislation on competition or fair trading should be introduced in Hong Kong and we await the Consumer Council's overall study with interest.

End/Thursday, November 2, 1995

The Road Traffic Ordinance

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Following is the speech by the Secretary for Transport, Mr Haider Barma, in the motion debate on the Road Traffic Ordinance (Amendment of Schedule 8) Order 1995 in the Legislative Council today (Thursday):

Mr President.

The fees for the inspection of private cars and light goods vehicles at Government Vehicle Examination Centres were increased in June 1995. The Road Traffic Ordinance (Amendment of Schedule 8) Order 1995 seeks to bring to the same level the fees for similar inspections at Car Testing Centres which, although privately owned, are designated by Government under the Road Traffic Ordinance to provide vehicle testing facilities. The Order also seeks to adjust the fees payable for Certificates of Roadworthiness.

It is only fair and to be expected that a vehicle owner should pay the same fee to have his vehicle inspected either at a Government VEC or a CTC. In this respect, I am glad that the Honourable Ron Arculli has accepted this and has not sought to amend section 2 subsection (b) of the Order which seeks to standardise these fees.

Section 2(c) of the Order seeks to revise the fees for Certificates of Roadworthiness. This is the mechanism through which the Administration recoups costs in respect of providing staff to administer the CTC scheme. Our team qualify CTC vehicle testers and are responsible for checking the facilities at and monitoring the quality of service provided by CTCs. Such monitoring is necessary to ensure that the standards of vehicle examinations are uniform.