The New Territories taxi trade has reaffirmed its endorsement of the Transport Department's proposal on a new fare structure and level adjustment.

Transport Commissioner Alan Wong made the announcement after a meeting this morning with the 16 taxi associations representing the New Territories taxi trade.

He hopes the new fare can be implemented before Chinese New Year.

"We are very grateful to the leaders of the associations of the taxi trade in the New Territories, being so understanding of the situation, and to work together with us for a common purpose which is to put in place the new fare structure and level before the Chinese New Year," he said.

Mr Wong said a taxi-trade delegation has been invited to attend the Legislative Council's transport panel meeting this Thursday to express their views on the proposal.

"We will support the recommendations with our analysis of the data on the changes in the income and cost structure of the New Territories taxi trade, and having regard to the changes in fuel crisis, the income of the drivers and also the affordability of the community in the face of economic slowdown," he said.

"We hope to be able to put it in place with the blessing and with the approval of the Executive Council and Legislative Council."

When asked about the taxi drivers' blockade last week, Mr Wong said the drivers should not use citizens as hostages to achieve their own objectives.

"I respect the view of the drivers who disagree with us and who may point fingers at theTransport Department; however, we do not accept the responsibility for this blockade," he added.