Change of tune: Hong Kong's MTR to review baggage rules as top orchestras join criticism of ban on large instruments
Music groups call for compromise over train company's restrictions on large instruments
In a U-turn under pressure from the city's professional and student musicians, the MTR Corporation agreed yesterday to review its rule banning musical instruments it considers too large to allow on trains.
"The present rule on the size of objects which can be carried into the MTR was established taking into account the reasonable needs of passengers … the impact on other passengers as well as safety considerations," it said in a statement last night. "In response to views expressed by members of the community, the corporation will conduct a review on the current restriction."
READ MORE: Hong Kong musicians urged to join MTR protest after cello player stopped
A day earlier, the MTR had insisted the restriction on oversized items was there to stay, dismissing outrage among musicians who questioned why they were being treated like parallel traders, who triggered the crackdown initially because they were bringing extra-large luggage onto trains.
The climbdown came after the city's flagship orchestras and music teachers joined in the chorus of concern over the MTR ban, saying it could affect students' arts development.
READ MORE: MTR staff 'follow, interrogate and threaten' cellist
The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, the largest symphonic band in Hong Kong with 90 musicians, announced on Facebook that talks were in progress with the MTR after students carrying cellos were banned on trains.
The Hong Kong Sinfonietta, the other Western ensemble among nine performing arts groups under the Home Affairs Bureau, expressed "regret" in a more strongly worded statement.
"Although none of our musicians has reported being inconvenienced, the warning and action taken by the MTR are not only disrespectful but a clear violation of the fundamental rights of musicians, as well as a deterrent for young people to learn musical instruments," it said.
Undersecretary for Home Affairs Florence Hui Hiu-fai called for reflection "on the importance of supporting musicians and music education for the city while balancing safety considerations on public transport".
READ MORE: MTR accused of turning 'selective blind eye' on baggage rules
At least three students have been barred from taking trains in the past week after the musical instruments they were carrying were found to exceed the permitted length of 130 centimetres.
READ MORE: My Take - MTR hits wrong note
The Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers urged the MTR to exempt musical instruments, or create special areas on trains for carrying them.
The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts' music school also urged the MTR to exercise flexibility on music students.
