City Digest

Rules 'bar most in need from transport subsidy'

About 60 per cent of workers from grass-roots families are excluded from the transport subsidy because application criteria are too tight, according to a coalition of concern groups on the review of subsidy schemes for the needy. The group interviewed 379 residents of Tung Chung, Sheung Shui and Tin Shui Wai and found they spent an average of HK$579 a month on transport. Those in Tung Chung spent up to HK$919 a month. The government has received 23,000 applications. It had estimated up to 200,000 workers could benefit.

Policy on mainland mums attacked on RTHK forum

Government policy on the control of mainland women entering Hong Kong to give birth was criticised during an RTHK forum yesterday. Obstetrics Concern Group spokesman Cheung Tak-hong said maternity services in public hospitals were facing full occupancy because mainlanders were giving birth in emergency wards at the last second. A lawmaker said the population policy of the government was ambiguous and the next chief executive had to tackle the problem.

Popularity poll inquiry to report within a month

The Baptist University panel looking into the release of an incomplete poll by the school of communication on chief executive candidates said it would report within a month.

Civil Aid Service in search for new blood

The Civil Aid Service has launched a recruitment drive, with applications closing on February 15. Candidates must sit fitness, written language and medical tests and an interview.

Cross-country motorcycle rider dies after crash

A man, 55, died after crashing his motorcycle during a cross-country ride in Ha Pak Nai, Tuen Mun.