********************************
The Chief Executive-in-Council has approved the granting of a new franchise to the Star Ferry Company Limited to continue operating the existing franchised ferry services from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui and from Wan Chai to Tsim Sha Tsui for a term of 10 years effective from April 1, 2008, to March 31, 2018.
In renewing the current franchise, which will expire on March 31, 2008, the Government has taken into account the company's past record of providing a proper and efficient service to the public and its agreement to the inclusion of new franchise conditions that would enhance service standards and enable better regulation of its operation.
A spokesman for the Transport and Housing Bureau said, "A number of new clauses have been introduced in the new franchise. These include adopting the latest commercially available and proven technologies in maritime trade to reduce exhaust emissions when acquiring new vessels and on its existing vessels as far as reasonably practicable and conducting regular passenger satisfaction surveys.
"The company will enhance its operational transparency such as strengthening the procurement guidelines. It has also pledged to install closed circuit televisions at the navigation and engine rooms of all its existing vessels for monitoring safety performance. In addition, the company¡¯s existing fare concessions will be maintained during the period of the new franchise."
The Chief Executive-in-Council has taken into account the Transport Advisory Committee's advice in considering the application.
Ends/Friday, December 21, 2007
Issued at HKT 16:00
NNNN