Regulation of Taxi Drivers Using Several Mobile Telephones While Driving and Offering Discounts on Taxi Fares  (2014/02/19)

MR YIU SI-WING: Apart from the inappropriate use of mobile phones and "soliciting" activities, cases of "black cabs" in recent years cannot be eliminated. Their unlawful acts, including overcharging, "soliciting", refusing hire, robbing passengers of their luggage, and so on, have directly damaged the reputation of Hong Kong as an international tourist city. May I ask the Secretary what counter measures were introduced by the Government last year to reduce the abovementioned unlawful acts, and whether the authorities will consider taking this opportunity to introduce legislative amendment?

SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT AND HOUSING: President, the law has already laid down clear provisions regulating the acts of overcharging and "soliciting", as well as the corresponding penalties. In view of the situation over the past period of time … I remember I had replied to similar questions in the Legislative Council before … the Government, including the police, is very concerned whether there is an increasing trend of such figures. Regarding the impact on tourists, some unscrupulous drivers may take advantage of the lack of understanding of tourists about the local situation and overcharge fares or take a less direct route. As such, the police have been carrying out undercover operations and stepping up efforts in combating the problem in other aspects. The TD has also strengthened liaison with the industry as well as publicity and education. We will keep a close eye on the trend of such figures and will certainly review, when necessary, whether the existing legislation has adequate deterrent effect.