Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun today said the Government will ensure no public money is lost following operational issues with some bus refund machines yesterday.  

The concessionary fare under the Government Public Transport Fare Concession Scheme for the Elderly & Eligible Persons with Disabilities, commonly known as the $2 Scheme, was adjusted to a “$2 flat rate or 80% discount” starting April 3.

Speaking to the media, Mr Sun clarified that any financial losses resulting from technical issues with the refund machines will be borne by the bus company.

“I understand yesterday some of the refund machines installed in bus stations of the Kowloon Motor Bus (company) were not operating as planned, but I can assure everyone here that there will be no loss of public money,” he said.

“As for public money, there will be no additional charges over the Government,” Mr Sun noted. “We will make sure that the use of public money will be strictly in accordance with the agreement reached between the Government and the bus company.”

Mr Sun added that passengers will not suffer any financial loss, as any costs arising from the operational issue will be borne in full by the bus operator.