ANYONE resolved to tighten their belts after the festive season would be well advised to take into account a number of price rises for Hongkong's public utilities. Increases are not only coming into effect today but also later in the year.
As of today, the Hongkong and China Gas Company is raising its basic tariff by seven per cent, which means that most domestic customers will be paying $10 extra each month.
Hongkong Electric is also putting up prices today by 4.1 per cent, equivalent to three cents per unit.
Also starting today is the Hongkong Electric's initiative to follow the Government's policy of promoting energy conservation.
This means there will be a new flat rate, instead of the steadily decreasing rate, for energy consumption beyond 20 minutes.
There are also other looming price increases from Hongkong Telecom, the two main bus companies - China Motor Bus and Kowloon Motor Bus - the Hospital Authority, and the Star Ferry.
Hongkong Telecom has applied to the Government for an increase in local telephone charges; the Kowloon Motor Bus has applied for a 13 per cent fare increase; and Star Ferry is to put up fares by 20 to 30 cents.
