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Proposal To Introduce LPG Taxis - A Consultation Paper

14 December 1998

Planning, Environment and Lands Bureau
(Environment Division)
9/F Murray Building
Garden Road, Central
Hong Kong

Dear Sir/Madam,

PROPOSAL TO INTRODUCE LPG TAXIS - A CONSULTATION PAPER

We are writing with our comments on the above consultation paper. We are strongly supportive of the Government's initiative to make LPG taxis mandatory. 

1. We were interested by the paper's analysis of air pollution in Hong Kong and are pleased that the Government has conducted such analysis. In particular, we are pleased that the Government has now recognised the severe problems caused by vehicle emissions in the confined street space between tall buildings. During rush hours such areas become virtual "canyons of death", with almost intolerable life-threatening pollution. Urgent action to deal with these black spots, as well as the problem of air pollution generally, is more than warranted.

2. From observation, enforcement of existing regulations against smokey vehicles is largely ineffective. Anecdotally, we hear of taxi drivers arranging minor adjustments to their vehicles sufficient to pass the test but not sufficient to make a lasting difference to their performance. We recommend a review of enforcement methodology to make it more effective.

3. We recommend that the timetable set out in the consultation paper - full conversion of taxis by 2005 - be accelerated if possible. We believe that, within reason, the community would be prepared to meet the additional costs of an accelerated programme. In addition, acceleration would encourage providers of LPG filling stations and maintenance services to make their investments sooner and more fully, so enhancing the likely success of the whole programme.

4. We would also like to see the LPG programme extended to minibuses as soon as possible. Again, simultaneous introduction of LPG programmes in various areas will make it more attractive for service providers to invest. We would also like to see appropriate action to minimise pollution from other vehicles such as HGV and buses. Further, engine idling is an avoidable cause of pollution that needs to be addressed.

5. We would highlight the need to coordinate various aspects of Government policy to achieve higher effectiveness. The paper notes the 30% cut in diesel duty in June 1998 which made diesel (temporarily) cheaper than LPG. We have also noted that the differential in the price of leaded and unleaded petrol has been relatively small. Such fiscal decisions create incentives that act against the Government's policy of seeking to reduce pollution. We urge that the calls of special interest groups are set aside and that fiscal policy is more closely aligned with environmental policy.

We hope that the above comments are helpful. We urge that the policy is vigorously implemented and if possible accelerated as outlined above.

Yours sincerely,

Alan LUNG Ka-lun
Chairman