Secretary for Transport & Housing Eva Cheng says the Transport Advisory Committee's proposal to introduce a new taxi fare structure will help improve the trade's competitiveness and combat the illegal activities of "discount gangs".

Speaking on a radio talk show today, Ms Cheng said the Government welcomes the committee's suggestions on the future tax operation mode.

She said the proposed greater flexibility in taxi fare structure and the introduction of fixed-route fixed-fare taxi services will benefit the trade and passengers.

In the coming weeks the Transport Department will meet trade representatives to discuss how to solve the technical problems involved in the proposed new operation mode.