The first expert group meeting on issuing one-off ad hoc quotas to cross-boundary Hong Kong private cars will be held this month with a view to announcing the first-phase arrangements in a year.

Secretary for Transport & Housing Eva Cheng told legislators today the scheme will give drivers an alternative means to cross the boundary, and will boost Hong Kong-Guangdong economic, social and cultural flow.

She said both sides have initially agreed to implement it in two phases, starting with the issue of ad hoc quotas to Hong Kong private cars first, followed by Guangdong private cars upon the first phase's satisfactory implementation. A trial scheme may be conducted at the Shenzhen Bay Port first.

The expert group will consolidate the concept and consider an overall implementation plan, such as the number of quotas, issuing criteria, application procedures, mutual recognition of vehicle licences, requirements on environmental protection, motor vehicle insurance and traffic enforcement.

Ms Cheng said the ad hoc quotas should not replace the existing basic quotas for cross-boundary private cars as the latter provide Mainland investors with a regular and reliable means to cross the boundary.

The number of ad hoc quotas may increase incrementally over the years in a gradual and controlled manner, or be adjusted flexibly with seasonal demand.

To encourage car owners to use the Shenzhen Bay Port the two governments have agreed to allow cars with Man Kam To, Sha Tau Kok and Lok Ma Chau quotas to continue to use it until the end of September.