Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Transport and Housing, Mr Frank Chan Fan, at a media session after attending radio programmes today (January 18):

Reporter: Is that a general direction for the rent control study because you said you have an open attitude towards the whole thing? My second question regarding the Tuen Ma Line, you said you are confident that the MTRC (MTR Corporation Limited) can prove on the first day of its operation which is a weekday, would you speak a little bit more, can Kwun Tong Line really cope with the extra passengers?

Secretary for Transport and Housing: As far as the tenancy control for subdivided units, we keep an open mind and we are looking forward to the formation of the working group on tenancy control on subdivided units. I would rather leave more latitude and freedom for the working group to work on because tenancy control is a very controversial subject in Hong Kong, and so far there is no consensus within the community. That is why we have to work in full scope and in full fledged to enable an agreeable approach in due course.

     As regards Tuen Ma Line Phase I, it's going to be commissioned on February 14, the MTRC and the colleagues are working very hard to prepare for it. In determining the date for opening, the MTRC has conducted comprehensive review and considered it's capable and competent to manage the traffic flow on that day.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

Ends/Saturday, January 18, 2020
Issued at HKT 13:52

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