New franchises for New Lantao Bus and Kowloon Motor Bus
A Government spokesman said today (August 28) that the Government is planning to engage New Lantao Bus Company (1973) Limited (NLB) and The Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933) Limited (KMB) in discussions on granting new 10-year franchises upon expiry of their current ones. Members of the public are welcome to offer their views on the two bus franchises to the Government.
The spokesman added that the current franchise of NLB will expire on March 1, 2027, whereas that of KMB on July 1, 2027. The two franchised bus operators have already indicated to the Government their interests in applying for new 10-year franchises. In accordance with the Public Bus Services Ordinance (Cap. 230), the Chief Executive in Council may grant to a company a franchise conferring the right to operate a public bus service for a period not exceeding 10 years. The Ordinance also requires a franchisee to maintain a proper and efficient public bus service to the satisfaction of the Commissioner for Transport at all times during the franchise period.
"Franchised bus service plays an important role in the public transport system. Though facing rising operating costs and changing travel patterns, NLB and KMB have been providing proper and efficient bus services. They are also willing to continue making long-term investments to keep providing passengers with high-quality franchised bus services. In handling the arrangements for the new franchises, the Government will endeavour to strive for the stability of franchised bus services to meet Hong Kong's future development and the needs of passengers. The Government will also push ahead with the enhancement of services and safety of the two franchised bus operators while ensuring that their operations and financial positions remain sound and sustainable," the spokesman said.
The Legislative Council Panel on Transport discussed the services of NLB and KMB as well as matters relating to the new franchises on March 20, 2026. The relevant document may be downloaded from the websites of the Transport and Logistics Bureau (www.tlb.gov.hk) and the Transport Department (www.td.gov.hk). Members of the public may put forth their views on the two franchises by post (Bus and Railway Branch, Transport Department, 16/F, South Tower, West Kowloon Government Offices, 11 Hoi Ting Road, Yau Ma Tei), fax (2802 2679) or email (bus-franchise@td.gov.hk) on or before September 28, 2026.
Source: AI-found images
Revisiting the Golden Age of Hong Kong Cinema with Director Stanley Kwan in London
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO) supported Plus One Films in presenting the Hong Kong Golden Age 1985-1997 Film Season at the Garden Cinema in London from July 9 to August 27(London time).
The Film Season presented 16 iconic Hong Kong films across 29 screenings, showcasing works by some of Hong Kong's most celebrated filmmakers and the rich diversity of stories and filmmaking styles that emerged during that remarkable era when Hong Kong established itself as one of the world's most prolific, dynamic and influential centres of film production. A themed panel discussion was arranged during the season, and selected screenings were complemented by expert introductions and Q&As, offering audiences an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of Hong Kong cinema and its creative legacy.
A highlight of the season was the Masterclass: In Conversation with Stanley Kwan, held on August 26 (London time) at King's College London. Director Kwan, the season's guest of honour, joined Professor Victor Fan of King's College London for a lively and insightful conversation, engaging with film critics, students and members of the audience. He shared his filmmaking journey, creative insights, and reflections on the evolution of the Hong Kong film industry. The season also featured a selection of Director Kwan's acclaimed works, including Center Stage, Full Moon in New York and Red Rose White Rose.
The Director-General of the London ETO, Miss Fiona Chau, addressed the audience at the masterclass. She highlighted the enduring appeal of Hong Kong cinema and the important role of film in fostering cultural connections between Hong Kong and audiences around the world.
"Hong Kong films are rooted in the city and its experiences, but the emotions and questions they explore can resonate across cultures and generations. It is particularly encouraging to see these films being discovered, and rediscovered, by audiences in London," Miss Chau said.
She added that the London ETO was keen to foster cultural connections through film. "Film has a wonderful ability to bring people closer to a place and its culture, allowing audiences to experience another city and another culture through its characters and stories. And when we have a filmmaker here with us, as we do tonight, that exchange becomes even more meaningful and enriching."
Plus One Films is dedicated to promoting the work of Chinese filmmakers in the United Kingdom through regular screenings and cultural programme including the Chinese Cinema Project and curated film seasons. The Hong Kong Golden Age 1985-1997 film season ran from July 9to August 27, 2026 (London time). It featured 29 screenings of 16 films, as well as a panel discussion and a masterclass, offering London audiences an opportunity to discover and experience the creativity, diversity and enduring appeal of Hong Kong cinema.
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO) supported the Hong Kong Golden Age 1985-1997 Film Season presented at The Garden Cinema from July 9 to August 27 (London time) in London. Photo shows the Director-General of London ETO, Miss Fiona Chau (right), and Director Stanley Kwan (left) after the masterclass. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London supported the Hong Kong Golden Age 1985-1997 Film Season presented at The Garden Cinema from July 9 to August 27 (London time) in London. Photo shows Director Stanley Kwan (left) engaging in a lively exchange with film critics, students and members of the audience at the masterclass. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO) supported the Hong Kong Golden Age 1985-1997 Film Season presented at The Garden Cinema from July 9 to August 27 (London time) in London. Photo shows the Director-General of London ETO, Miss Fiona Chau, addressing the audience at the special masterclass titled "Masterclass: In Conversation with Stanley Kwan". Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
Revisiting the Golden Age of Hong Kong Cinema with Director Stanley Kwan in London Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
Revisiting the Golden Age of Hong Kong Cinema with Director Stanley Kwan in London Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
Revisiting the Golden Age of Hong Kong Cinema with Director Stanley Kwan in London Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
Revisiting the Golden Age of Hong Kong Cinema with Director Stanley Kwan in London Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
