Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee told reporters on the morning of May 19, before the Executive Council meeting, that ride-hailing vehicles have long lacked regulation. He said the government established a framework and primary legislation last October, introducing a cap on the total number of such vehicles.
Acknowledging differing views from various sectors on the number of licences to be issued, Lee said the current phase of control must consider three factors: first, public demand and a good passenger experience; second, road capacity and the operation of public transport; and third, a mechanism to review market conditions and dynamic data.
He added that the government is pushing for regulation to ensure ride-hailing services operate within a legal, compliant and safe framework, while also promoting healthy competition and complementarity between taxis and ride-hailing services to improve the overall quality of point-to-point transport. This, he said, would provide the public with more reliable choices. At the same time, the government will step up enforcement against illegal and non-compliant white‑plate cars (unlicensed private cars used for hire).
Lee said the government will consider all views and examine data before submitting subsidiary legislation to the Legislative Council for deliberation in the first half of this year.
Related News:
John Lee: Currently in full speed to develop HK's first 'Five-Year Plan'
Photos | CE heads to Beijing for opening meeting of NPC annual session
Comment