Work-to-rule Has Little Effect On Bus Passengers

Bus driver unions on Friday conceded that a work-to-rule protest during the morning rush hour had had very little impact on passengers, as it warned a strike could be on the cards if their demands over working hours and pay aren't met.

The Federation of Bus Industry Trade Unions had asked drivers only to let passengers get on and off when buses were properly parked at stops, and not to allow any oversized baggage on board.

The action lasted until 10am, but the federation said it did not know how many drivers had actually taken part.

Federation chairman Sze Man-wai said he believed companies had put on more buses than normal to mitigate the effect of the protest.

Sze apologised for any inconvenience caused to passengers, but also warned there could be an escalation of their protest if the Transport Department doesn't respond positively to their demands.

The unions under the federation represent drivers from major franchised bus companies KMB, Citybus and New World First Bus.

Members are unhappy that they can be called upon to work shifts as long as 14 hours in special circumstances and complain that the pay they get for break times is far from generous.

The Transport Department said bus services, as well as the traffic situation, were largely the same on Friday morning as any other working day.

A spokesman said officials will continue to encourage bus companies to reduce working hours for drivers and will monitor whether any 14-hour shifts are really necessary.

KMB, meanwhile, said it will keep listening to its employees' views on the matter.