Safety stance: Commissioner for Transport Alan Wong briefs the press after meeting the minibus trade and Police.

The pace of fitting seat belts on minibuses will be expedited while publicity on buckling up and traffic safety will be bolstered, Commissioner for Transport Alan Wong says.

After meeting trade representatives and the Police today, Mr Wong expressed concern over recent fatal minibus accidents.

Noting 1.8 million Hong Kong commuters take minibuses daily and there is a monthly average of 500 complaints about their services, Mr Wong said saftey will be enhanced with public education, enforcement and legislation.

Guideline review

Mr Wong has asked the trade to review guidelines issued to drivers. The trade has also pledged to distribute publicity materials on wearing seat belts and encourage drivers to take improvement courses to enhance their awareness of traffic safety.

Mr Wong said about one-third of Hong Kong's 4,350 vehicles have been fitted with seat belts. The trade will expedite the process as much as possible.

Police Public Relations Chief Superintendent Alfred Ma said from August last year to last October 993 verbal warnings and 320 summonses have been issued to minibus passengers not buckling up. He said enforcement will be strengthened and called on drivers to remind passengers to wear seat belts.

Passengers can call the Transport Complaints Unit 2889 9999 or Transport Department hotline 2804 2600 to report offending minibus drivers.