Bus firm may get leeway

THE Government may extend the franchise of China Motor Bus (CMB) for a year if it fails to work out a new franchise by August.

Deputy Secretary for Transport Issac Chow Yiu-nam said discussions were continuing with CMB over the renewal of its franchise, which expires in August. An extension for a year might be granted to allow time for an agreement to be reached.

Mr Chow refused to say if the number of routes would be cut drastically.

He said officials were planning to amend the Public Bus Services Ordinance to give the Government priority to rent depots and buses after a franchise expired.