Effective management measures can help prevent the monopolisation of bus services, Secretary for Environment, Transport & Works Dr Sarah Liao says.

Speaking on two radio talk shows this morning, Dr Liao said the Government can prevent bus services from being monopolised through various measures, such as inviting other companies to bid for certain routes.

Bus services on Hong Kong Island are still being run by two separate bus companies, involving two different franchises, she said, adding that any changes in bus fares or routes are subject to the Transport Department's permission.

If the two companies want to apply for a re-assignment of the franchise, it has to go through Chief Executive-in-Council.

Speaking on the fare-adjustment trial scheme for New Territories taxis, Dr Liao said the proposal was made by the trade and the Government is just facilitating them to seize the opportunity to attract more passengers.

She said some drivers negotiate fares with passengers, showing there is room for a fare reduction. She promised that if the trial scheme is unsuccessful, the Government will stop the programme.

To prevent taxi drivers from liaising with passengers on fares and other related illegal activities, Police and the Office of the Telecommunications Authority will step up their enforcement action.

Turning on the taxi fare of urban taxis, Dr Liao said the trade has not reached a consensus on the issue. The Government will study the result of a related opinion survey before making any decision.

Dr Liao said the work for formulating a public transport fare adjustment mechanism is now at its final stage. The Government is discussing the issue with the related operators.