Troubled companies such as KPS Video Express should open their books to the Consumer Council, an incoming lawmaker urged yesterday.
In the wake of the KPS coupon crisis, Fred Li Wah-ming of the Democratic Party demanded laws to allow the council to conduct independent audits.
The video rental company has been criticised for ditching its pre-paid coupon system by the end of July. It blames financial difficulties for the decision.
But Mr Li said: 'We have been hearing a one-sided story from KPS up to now.
'It would be fairer to the consumers if the company let the Consumer Council have access to its books.' Mr Li also urged the Trade and Industry Bureau to consider making laws to better protect consumer rights.
'A certain amount of the received money should be reserved in a fund as the travel industry has done. If the company goes bankrupt, customers could get something refunded,' he said.