The Government has decided not to proceed with work in relation to the introduction of special rates on vacant first-hand private residential units and franchised taxis in this legislative session.

The Transport & Housing Bureau said the decision was made after taking into account the latest economic situation, the community’s views and previous comments made by the relevant bills committees.

The Rating (Amendment) Bill 2019 aims to implement the proposed special rates to encourage a more timely supply of first-hand private residential units.

At the two bills committee meetings held in June this year, members expressed very divergent views on the proposed introduction of special rates. Additionally, there are strong and differing views in the community.

As for the Franchised Taxi Services Bill, it seeks to introduce franchised taxis to meet the new demand in the community for personalised and point-to-point public transport services of a higher quality with an online hailing feature.

There were also diverse views about this bill at the bills committee meeting.

While some believed that introducing franchised taxis could enhance competition, quite a number of members were concerned that such a move would further aggravate the operating difficulties faced by the trade amid the economic downturn.

Taking into account the latest economic situation and the views received at the bills committees, the Government has made the decision to withdraw both bills after balancing various considerations.

The bureau will withdraw the two bills later in accordance with the relevant Rules of Procedure of the Legislative Council.