Chief Executive urges calm amid taxi strike threats: Emphasizes public interest and need for regulation

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu called for calm amid escalating threats of a taxi strike, warning that any radical actions could harm public interests and lack support from the community. 

Speaking prior to the weekly Executive Council meeting Tuesday, Lee cautioned that such actions might be exploited by individuals with ulterior motives, potentially distorting the core issues at hand.

“The government’s position is clear -- taxi services need improvement, and car-hailing platforms must be regulated,” Lee said. 

“Any drastic action will not resolve the problem and may further inconvenience everyday citizens, ultimately lacking public backing.”

Lee also said that several representatives from the taxi industry have indicated their disapproval of escalated measures. 

He also added that the Transport and Logistics Bureau has proposed solutions aimed at enhancing management and improving taxi services.

He reiterated that the longstanding issues between the taxi industry and online ride-hailing platforms have built up over the years in Hong Kong. Lee said that the upcoming Transport Advisory Committee meeting tomorrow will provide a valuable opportunity for all parties to engage in rational discussions and exchange viewpoints.

Lee’s remarks follow a threat from the Hong Kong Tele-call Taxi Association to initiate a five-day citywide strike starting March 5 if the government fails to take immediate action against unlicensed ride-hailing platforms.

(Ayra Wang)