Transport chief responds to backlash over Hong Kong law on public bus seat belts

Hong Kong’s transport minister has promised to refine a policy requiring seat belts to be worn 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 pledge on Wednesday, less than a week after the new rules took effect that 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 public backlash and calls for a review within six to nine months from the city’s major political parties. 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 she had heard lawmakers’ comments, but stopped short of saying 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 as quickly as possible these operational and equipment issues.”