Hong Kong transport chief pledges to refine bus seat belt rules after backlash

Hong Kong’s transport minister has pledged to refine a policy requiring passengers to wear seat belts on buses by ensuring the devices become more user-friendly, while acknowledging lawmakers’ calls for a review of the recent law.

Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan made the promise on Wednesday, less than a week after the new rules took effect. The regulations require all passengers travelling on public or private buses, including franchised and school services, to wear seat belts where available.

The policy has already prompted a public backlash and calls from the city’s major political parties for a review within six to nine months. Professor Wong Sze-chun, chairman of the Transport Advisory Committee, later said a review was “not that important” as such legislation often needed an adjustment period.

Chan said that she had heard lawmakers’ comments, but did not reveal how she planned to respond to calls for a review or for amendments. She also refrained from addressing the safety risks facing standing passengers not required to buckle up.

“We have also heard suggestions from lawmakers. Some hoped we would review the rule after a period of time to make improvements and optimisations,” she said. “These are valuable opinions and feedback.

“Whether [the seat belts] are too tight or too loose, we are willing to follow up on and improve these operational and equipment issues as quickly as possible.”