The Government will carefully review penalties for taxi driver malpractices to ensure a balance between deterrence and keeping the penalties at a reasonable level proportionate to the seriousness of the offence.

The Transport Department made the statement today, saying the Government is consulting the Taxi Trade Conference on the Government's proposal to strengthen penalties for taxi driver malpractices.

Noting some trade representatives have different opinions, it said the Government will maintain communication with the trade and other stakeholders and adopt an open attitude in listening to their views to formulate appropriate and feasible measures to improve taxi service quality.