Scheduled premises' rules clarified
Premises can still operate other licensed businesses which are not required to be suspended if they were operating more than one licensed business before the closure, the Food & Health Bureau said today.
The bureau made the statement in response to media enquiries on some anti-epidemic measures which were relaxed from today.
The statement noted that in accordance with the Prevention & Control of Disease (Requirements & Directions) (Business & Premises) Regulation, the Secretary for Food & Health has issued directions by notices in the Gazette that certain scheduled premises, namely karaoke establishments, clubs or nightclubs, party rooms and bathhouses, should remain closed until May 21.
These scheduled premises may still operate other licensed businesses if the operators have implemented all measures to effectively stop or avoid operation of businesses and offering services which are required to be suspended.
For example, premises originally operated as karaoke establishments and catering businesses can continue their catering business in accordance with the relevant directions if all karaoke operation and services are suspended.
The directions state that facilities, installations and equipment for karaoke activities are closed or properly sealed off and notices are posted in prominent locations at the entrances clearly indicating that only catering services but no karaoke services are provided in the premises.
Other scheduled premises operating more than one licensed business can adopt similar measures to operate other licensed businesses which are not required to be suspended, the bureau added.
Hospital discharge criteria explained
(To watch the full press briefing with sign language interpretation, click here.)
The Centre for Health Protection today said recovered COVID-19 patients or those who did not have any symptoms may be discharged from hospital 10 days after the onset of symptoms or a positive test result.
Its Communicable Disease Branch Head Dr Chuang Shuk-kwan told a press briefing that the revised discharge criteria was based on the latest scientific evidence.
“Our Scientific Committee on Emerging & Zoonotic Diseases met yesterday and examined the latest scientific evidence on whether the virus will be viable from a patient.
“And the available evidence showed that this virus is usually not detected after 10 days since the onset of symptoms of patients. Some patients may have persistent positive PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for a long period of time.”
Dr Chuang noted that patients still had to meet the criteria of having two clinical specimens test negative, or testing positive for the SARS-CoV-2 antibody to be discharged.
“We have revised the discharge criteria to include the patient who (must have) been staying in the hospital for at least 10 days after the onset of symptoms. So this is the additional criteria, in addition to the previous criteria of two consecutive negative specimens.
“We added another criteria (which is) in case a patient has stayed in the hospital for a long time, more than 10 days since the onset of symptoms, but he or she has persistent positive PCR despite the Ct (cycle threshold) value being very high, they can check their serology, the antibody. So if the antibody turns positive, usually it is after 10 days, then he or she can be discharged.
“So this is based on the latest scientific evidence.”
COVID-19 patient tests positive again
(To watch the full press briefing with sign language interpretation, click here.)
A recovered COVID-19 patient has tested positive for the virus again, the Hospital Authority announced today.
The authority’s Chief Manager (Quality & Standards) Dr Lau Ka-hin told a media briefing this afternoon that the patient was first admitted to Queen Mary Hospital on March 24 after having fever for a week. He subsequently tested positive for COVID-19.
He was discharged on April 16 after two consecutive negative tests for the virus.
Dr Lau said: "The patient presented to the Accident & Emergency Department of Queen Mary Hospital on May 5 because of some abdominal pain and diarrhoea.
"He was admitted to our hospital and was found to have a positive result for COVID-19 in the throat saliva, but the cycle threshold value is very high - nearly 36.
"The experts consider that this is the residual virus left in the patient’s body, which is not infective, and it is not likely to be a reinfection at this moment."
He added that the patient is in a stable condition.
4 new COVID-19 cases reported
The Centre for Health Protection today announced it is investigating four additional confirmed COVID-19 cases.
The newly reported cases involve four males aged between 11 and 47. All of them travelled during the incubation period.
Epidemiological investigations and relevant contact tracing on the confirmed cases are ongoing.
The centre again urged the public to maintain an appropriate social distance from other people as much as possible to minimise the risk of infection.
People should go out less and avoid social activities such as having meals out or other gatherings to minimise the risk of outbreak clusters emerging in the community.
As the COVID-19 situation remains severe and the number of cases reported around the world continues to rise, people are strongly advised to avoid all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong as well as maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene at all times.
Additionally, the Hospital Authority reported that there are currently 120 patients under isolation and that 944 patients have been discharged upon recovery.
For information and health advice on COVID-19, visit the Government's dedicated webpage.
2m registered for CuMask
The CuMask online registration system received over 720,000 registrations, covering two million registrants in total on the first day of registration on May 6, the Innovation & Technology Bureau announced today.
The bureau said the response is overwhelming and it is encouraged to see support for local invention.
"Our thanks go to support from all sides, including the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles & Apparel (HKRITA) which has been commissioned to oversee the project, the Crystal International Group Limited which is responsible for the production, the Novetex Textiles Limited in Tai Po Industrial Estate for providing clean room for sterilisation, The Mills and the TAL Apparel Limited for lending premises to set up workshops as well as the frontline workmen for their hard work over the past few months.
“This unrivalled challenge cannot be met without their joint efforts and the collaboration of the industry and our team,” the bureau stated.
The bureau commissioned the HKRITA to oversee the CuMask project in order to meet the imminent needs for masks in Hong Kong.
It pointed out that the Government Stores & Procurement Regulations do allow direct purchase to be made under extreme urgency.
The whole procurement process was conducted in accordance with the Government's procurement regulations and procedures and with confirmation that the conditions under the Agreement on Government Procurement of the World Trade Organization could be met.
The bureau further explained that in February and March this year, the Government contacted various suppliers of reusable masks. However, most stated that they had either stopped production, did not have enough stock, were unable to export materials due to export control, or unable to produce testing certification.
The epidemic at that time was serious and the supplies of anti-epidemic items were becoming scarce. Hong Kong did not have any raw materials or production lines.
Taking into account the aggressive procurement actions of anti-epidemic items by different countries, export control and suspension of production lines all over the world, the Government had to consider urgently the feasibility of manufacturing reusable masks that would be up to standard for use by the whole community.
On reviewing the reusable mask developed by the HKRITA, the Government considered that the design of the mask and materials used could meet the requirement, as there were supporting certifications proving its compliance with relevant international standards.
As for mass production, it depends on the availability of supply of raw materials. Having wide network in the industry, the HKRITA was able to acquire quality raw materials within a short period and put production lines in place.
The Government therefore commissioned the HKRITA to oversee the coordination of production through direct purchase with a view to supplying reusable masks to all Hong Kong residents as soon as possible.
The bureau added the HKRITA is a non-profit-making R&D centre fully subsidised by the Government, with most of their R&D projects funded by the Innovation & Technology Fund.
The HKRITA oversees the CuMask project on a non-profit-making basis. All expenses will be reimbursed to the HKRITA on the basis of actual spending.
People concerned with the effectiveness of the CuMask may browse the website for testing reports and patent information.
Gov't calls for rational discussion
The Government urged District Councillors to focus on livelihood issues and discuss matters rationally, adding that it will continue to co-operate with the District Council under the principles of mutual respect, observation of order and rational discussion.
The Government issued the statement after a number of Central & Western District Council members today entered the office area of the Central & Western District Office without consent.
The statement noted that the members shouted loudly and knocked on the door of the office.
Despite repeated responses and an appeal from the District Office staff, the members still refused to leave.
The statement added that the members stayed in the District Office for a long time, seriously affecting its operation.
The Government expressed regret over their acts.
CE inspects CuMask production
Chief Executive Carrie Lam inspected one of the CuMask production sites in Tsuen Wan today and expressed gratitude to those manufacturing the reusable masks for Hong Kong residents to fight against the COVID-19 epidemic.
She chatted with the staff and noted that many of them are retired textile industry workers who have re-joined the production workforce to combat the virus.
Mrs Lam praised them for their commitment to serving the community and thanked them for their hard work.
The masks produced in the workshop will be delivered to a clean workspace for sterilising with ozone and packing before distribution. There is no need to wash the mask before it is used for the first time.
In the face of the tight supply of masks amid the epidemic, the Government set aside funds to subsidise projects on technology applications of reusable masks under the first round of the Anti-epidemic Fund.
The CuMask complies with the American Society for Testing & Materials F2100 Level 1 standard and can be washed up to 60 times. It can also be used for a longer period after replacing the filter.
Mrs Lam said she is pleased to note that CuMask is well received by the public and the registration process has been very smooth.
“CuMask is a home-grown scientific research achievement with local application. The whole process has involved co-operation between the Government, industry, academia and the research sector and is an outstanding example of the use of technology to improve people’s lives.
“It will also help solve the problem of the supply of face masks during an epidemic in the long run. I highly commend all the people who have participated in the relevant work and I am fully confident in the development of innovation and technology in Hong Kong.”
Mrs Lam appealed to the public to make use of the registration quota of up to six people to minimise delivery resources and enhance efficiency.
She added that relevant departments will deliver the masks as soon as possible.
No new COVID-19 cases reported
The Centre for Health Protection announced that as of 4pm today, no new COVID-19 cases have been recorded, leaving the number of confirmed cases in Hong Kong at 1,040 so far.
The centre again urged members of the public to maintain an appropriate social distance with other people to minimise the risk of infection.
People should go out less and avoid social activities such as having meals out or other gatherings to minimise the risk of coronavirus clusters emerging in the community.
As the COVID-19 situation remains severe and the number of cases reported around the world continues to rise, people are strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong as well as maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene at all times.
Additionally, the Hospital Authority reported that there are currently 127 patients under isolation and that 932 patients have been discharged upon recovery.
For information and health advice on COVID-19, visit the Government's dedicated webpage.
1.38m registered for CuMask
The Innovation & Technology Bureau announced that as of 3pm today, the CuMask online registration system had received over 500,000 registrations, covering close to 1.38 million registrants in total.
The bureau also responded to reports concerning the purpose of information collection and security of the registration system.
It noted that information provided by citizens in obtaining the masks will not be used for other purposes and that the Government will ensure the retention period of the personal data is no longer than the time required for the purposes for which the data is used.
The bureau pointed out that the registration system for masks operates on the Government's private cloud to ensure the stability and security of the system.
In order to prevent intrusion and data leakage, multiple security measures have been put in place in compliance with the Government Information Technology Security Policy & Guidelines.
These measures include a firewall, intrusion detection, anti-bot technology and installation of the latest anti-virus software with regular updates of virus definitions.
The service has also passed an information security risk assessment and audit before launch.
The Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data has been consulted on the system's personal data processing arrangements.
The system has also passed an independent third-party privacy impact assessment to ensure that the relevant service and system comply with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance.
The bureau further explained that citizens need to provide their Hong Kong identity card number and date of birth for the registration system to match data with the Immigration Department’s system.
The process will be used to ascertain whether the registrant is a Hong Kong resident and check against any duplicated registrations.
The local mobile number serves as a way to receive SMS messages on registration results and delivery, while the name and local address of the main registrant serves to verify whether the address exists and for arranging delivery.
The bureau emphasised that the purposes of information collection have been clearly displayed on the front of the registration page for citizens to browse before registration.
Meanwhile, the bureau clarified the online rumours regarding the manufacturer of CuMask, noting that the CuMask is not manufactured by the Sun Hing Knitting Factory Limited nor Nan Fung Group.
The procurement of raw materials, coordination of production, sterilisation and packaging of the CuMask are being handled by the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles & Apparel, it said.
The bureau expressed regret about the rumours.
Gov’t to distribute reusable masks
The Government will distribute free reusable face masks to all Hong Kong citizens, the Innovation & Technology Bureau announced today.
The CuMask, made with six layers and special ergonomic features, was developed by the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles & Apparel.
Two of its layers contain copper which is capable of immobilising bacteria, common viruses and other harmful substances.
The mask complies with the American Society for Testing & Materials F2100 Level 1 Standard in terms of particle and bacterial filtration efficiency, resistance to penetration by synthetic blood, and flammability and pressure resistance.
It is also reusable for up to 60 washes.
The bureau said, except for babies and infants, all holders of valid Hong Kong identity cards are eligible to obtain a mask.
Citizens can register online from 7am tomorrow till June 6. Each registration can cater for a maximum of six persons.
Upon successful registration, the mask will be delivered to the door by Hongkong Post within two weeks.
Primary and kindergarten students will each be given two masks, which will be delivered directly to children's schools. Parents do not have to register.
The Government has also arranged to deliver over 140,000 of the masks to residential homes and social welfare institutions for their distribution to those including elderly and the homeless.
Click here for registration details.
Masks for the needy ensured
(To watch the full press conference with sign language interpretation, click here.)
Chief Executive Carrie Lam today said that Hong Kong’s needy and disadvantaged will receive masks as part of the Government’s new mask distribution programme.
Mrs Lam made the announcement during a press conference this afternoon and explained that millions of donated masks will also be distributed to those in need.
“I have outlined six measures to distribute masks freely to the people of Hong Kong, and of course in so doing, we will take special account of the disadvantaged, the elderly and street sleepers.
“So apart from being a member of the Hong Kong population, they will receive reusable masks. They will receive disposable masks. We have this mask distribution program together with a large number of non-governmental organisations, charity groups and self-help groups.
“So we will continue to work with them to distribute another three million masks, which were donated to us.”
Mrs Lam emphasised that should there be a shortage of masks set aside for the needy, the Government will use its own supply to cover the shortfall.
“I am announcing that if we run out of donated masks, but there is still a need from this disadvantaged groups, we will use the government masks - the masks that we procured which are supposed to be for our own use - and share these with the needy groups in society.
“That's a way to ensure that, in a public health situation that we are now in, the needs of the disadvantaged groups will be fully taken care of.”
In addition to distributing donated masks, the Government announced other measures on mask supplies that include handing out single-use and reusable masks to all Hong Kong residents and students in need.
Such measures also call for increasing the supply of masks to staff of elderly homes and cleaning workers employed by the Government's outsourced service contractors, as well as providing masks to private medical practitioners.
Class resumption date set
(To watch the full press conference with sign language interpretation, click here.)
Secretary for Education Kevin Yeung today said the Government is confident that classes can resume on May 27.
Mr Yeung made the statement at a press conference this afternoon.
He said: “We are not announcing class resumption right away. We are giving advance notice of about three weeks for all the stakeholders to get prepared for the school resumption.”
The Government will continue to monitor the situation during this period and adjust the school resumption plan if necessary, he added.
"At this stage we are still pretty confident that we should be able to resume classes on May 27."
CE explains relaxation of measures
(To watch the full press conference with sign language interpretation, click here.)
The relaxation of anti-epidemic measures is a step in the right direction, Chief Executive Carrie Lam said today.
Mrs Lam made the statement at a press conference this afternoon.
She said the Government will relax the requirement limiting group gatherings in public places to a maximum of four people. Starting from Friday, up to eight people can gather in public places.
"So raising the number from four to eight for the catering business and also for the prohibition against group gatherings under Cap 599G is not an exact science, but this is a step in the right direction of relaxation.
"Maybe in another 14 days’ time we will raise the number of eight to 10, to 12, to 15 and so on."
Regarding bars and pubs, Mrs Lam said these venues will be able to reopen but the Government will put in place requirements to prevent physical interactions.
"We have decided that perhaps to strike a pragmatic balance is to allow them to reopen for business but to put in far more stringent requirements."
Such requirements include no live music, band performances or dancing in bar premises.
"That would be another way to keep the social distance and prevent as much as possible physical interactions."
Click here for the latest measures.
Some anti-epidemic measures eased
(To watch the full press conference with sign language interpretation, click here.)
Chief Executive Carrie Lam today said because Hong Kong has not reported a local COVID-19 case for over two weeks and imported cases are low, some anti-epidemic measures can be lifted.
During a press conference, Mrs Lam outlined that unlike some European countries, Hong Kong did not need to go into lockdown to contain the spread of the disease.
“Hong Kong has never gone into a stage of a complete city lockdown. In some of the European countries where they practise a city lockdown, residents are simply not allowed to leave their homes, except for some very essential purposes. But we have never adopted that practice.
“And in fact, many renowned experts are now trying to study our situation - why does Hong Kong succeed in keeping the confirmed cases at a low level without drastic measures like a complete city lockdown. And I do think that is a very interesting topic for further research.”
Mrs Lam noted that the Government had adopted the “suppress and lift” strategy under which restrictions are implemented and lifted in accordance with the infection situation.
“The strategy that Hong Kong has been adopting - and advocated by some of our experts - is what we call a ‘suppress and lift strategy’.
“So in light of the number of confirmed cases and likelihood of the spread of the disease in the community, we will have to suppress in order to make sure that there will be no surge in the number of confirmed cases as we have seen in some neighbouring regions.
“When the situation of the infection stabilises, that is the time for lifting, that is, loosening a bit so that society can operate more normally, especially for the businesses and for individuals’ behaviour.”
The Chief Executive said the Government still needed to monitor the COVID-19 situation closely, even though it was in the stage of lifting restrictions.
“We are now right in the stage of lifting because we have not had a local case for 16 days already and the number of imported cases is very, very low.
“We are now quite confident that the system of testing and holding that we have put in place for all arrivals from overseas would enable us to control the number of imported cases. So this is a time for lifting and this afternoon we have announced a number of lifting measures.
“If the situation continues to stay at the current level - no local cases, very few imported cases - then at the end of the 14-day period, that is May 22, of course that would be the time for more relaxation.”
Mrs Lam added that if a local case suddenly surfaced, Hong Kong may have to go back to some suppression measures, which was why the Government had to monitor the situation closely so it could take the necessary and pertinent response measures.
No new COVID-19 cases reported
The Centre for Health Protection announced that as of 4pm today, no new COVID-19 cases have been recorded, leaving the number of confirmed cases in Hong Kong at 1,040 so far.
The centre again urged members of the public to maintain an appropriate social distance with other people in their daily lives to minimise the risk of infection.
People should go out less and avoid social activities such as having meals out or other gatherings to minimise the risk of coronavirus clusters emerging in the community.
As the COVID-19 situation remains severe and the number of cases reported around the world continues to rise, people are strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel outside Hong Kong as well as maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene at all times.
Additionally, the Hospital Authority reported that there are currently 142 patients under isolation and that 920 patients have been discharged upon recovery.
For information and health advice on COVID-19, visit the Government's dedicated webpage.
SJ offers advice to youngsters
There have been arrests, prosecutions and convictions of youngsters and students resulting from the social unrest since June last year. Recently, explosives and chemicals were found by Police. It would be catastrophic if they were used for unscrupulous purposes. Some of the youngsters might have been mistakenly led to believe that use of violence should be considered as a means to achieve their aspirations. However, I hope that they appreciate that law-breaking behaviour would always have legal consequences.
It is very troubling to see from the media reports that underage children or students are taking part in unlawful activities and even getting involved in violence. In so doing, they would not only put their own and others' safety at risk, but could also be arrested and prosecuted resulting in criminal records upon convictions. Their future in education and employment would inevitably be affected.
There are misleading suggestions that all young offenders would only be cautioned under the Police Superintendent's Discretion Scheme without criminal records. One must understand that Police, in deliberating whether to administer a caution, have to take into account a number of factors, such as whether the juvenile offender was under the age of 18 at the time of committing the offence; the seriousness and nature of the offence; whether the offender voluntarily and unequivocally admits the offence; whether the offender is remorseful and so on. Therefore, the scheme does not apply to all young offenders indiscriminately.
Similarly, bind over orders are only appropriate for first-time offenders involving minor offences and they have to be agreed by the courts. Under the bind over arrangement, offenders are required to admit the wrongdoings and are admonished in an open court. They also need to give an undertaking to the court to be of good behaviour. Imprisonment might be imposed for breaching the undertaking. Before agreeing to such a procedure on specified conditions, the prosecution has to give considerations to various factors including the age of the offender, criminal record, and attitude of the offender such as remorsefulness and so on.
There are also comments that prosecutions against young offenders should be withdrawn on the basis of public interest. I have to stress again that the Department of Justice (DoJ) must strictly make our prosecutorial decisions in accordance with admissible evidence, applicable laws and the Prosecution Code. The non-exhaustive list of considerations to be addressed when making assessment in considering public interest, including those applicable to juvenile offenders, were set out in 5.9 and 15.4 of the Prosecution Code, which include the nature of the offence, the seriousness of the offence, the criminal history of the suspect, remorsefulness of the suspect and the sentencing options available to the court and so on. Prosecutors should follow the above principles in making their decisions and must not withdraw charges unjustifiably under the pretext of public interest.
In considering the above arrangements, the DoJ has to carefully examine the circumstances of each case in an objective manner and strictly in accordance with the established principles. A decision cannot be made solely based on the age of the offenders. Their legal representatives are not only duty bound to inform them of their rights but also have an obligation to remind them of the legal consequences and the availability and considerations in relation to the above arrangements.
As observed by Lord Diplock, "[t]he acceptance of the rule of law as a constitutional principle requires that a citizen, before committing himself to any course of action, should be able to know in advance what are the legal consequences that will flow from it". Every member of the public must be aware that one has to bear the legal responsibility resulting from law-breaking behaviour. I sincerely hope that every one, in particular the youngsters, should exercise their independent thinking and judgement, and, more importantly, stay away from violence and not commit mistakes that might ruin their lives in the future.
Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng wrote this article and posted it on her blog on May 9.
CusMask safe for use: Alfred Sit
The CuMasks have undergone strict testing and certification processes before the product will be distributed to help people combat the COVID-19 virus, Secretary for Innovation & Technology Alfred Sit said today.
Mr Sit’s remarks came amid public concerns over the safety of the free reusable face masks that the Government plans to distribute to all Hong Kong citizens.
Addressing reporters after attending a radio programme this morning, Mr Sit said: “The product has gone through a very comprehensive and clear testing and certification process.
“The product can fully comply with the American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM) F2100 Level 1 requirement, so that the product can fully meet the need of protecting our people from COVID-19.
“I have to emphasise that this whole process must be done by proper laboratories and that’s what we have done.”
Mr Sit noted that a dedicated website on the CuMask has been set up that contains information on the testing reports of the masks.
“For those people who may not have a complete understanding about our product, they may go to our website so that they can see the reports and certificates.
“I fully hope this product can help our people to combat COVID-19.That’s what we would like to do."
Police involved in offences arrested
Police today said it is highly concerned about recent criminal offences involving police officers and that a number of these officers have been arrested.
Among them, officers in connection with serious offences have been or will be interdicted.
The force said it is furious and disappointed about the officers who are suspected of having breached the law and that the incidents have impaired public confidence in Police.
Police attach the utmost importance to the discipline and integrity of officers.
All officers, irrespective of their ranks, must abide by the law at all times.
Police management has zero tolerance towards any acts that breach the law or discipline by police officers, it added.
The force also said it attaches great importance to the integrity of its officers.
The Complaints & Internal Investigations Branch formulated the Integrated Integrity Management Framework to promote integrity and honesty among officers as well as to regulate their discipline and conduct.
To avoid similar incidents, Police said its management is reviewing the force’s internal management strategy.
Police reiterated that no bad element in the force can be tolerated.
If an officer is suspected of having breached the law or committed a breach of discipline, Police will conduct an investigation according to the established mechanism and take appropriate actions.
Christopher Hui visits registry
Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui today visited the Companies Registry (CR) to inspect its operation.
Mr Hui visited the New Companies Section, the Public Search Section and the Document Management Section at the registry and spoke with staff there to learn about their work conditions and the services that they provide.
He said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has dealt a heavy blow to Hong Kong's overall economy.
“To help enterprises cope with their operating pressure amid the economic downturn, the Financial Secretary announced in the 2020-21 Budget the waiver of registration fees for annual returns, except for late delivery, charged by the CR for two years.
“And with a view to encouraging the wider use of the CR's electronic services, we also propose to reduce the fees payable in relation to the incorporation of companies, including registration of non-Hong Kong companies, through electronic means by 10%."
The Companies (Fees) (Amendment) Regulation 2020 gazetted today will be tabled at the Legislative Council for negative vetting on May 13 for the waiver and reduction to take effect from October 1.
The waiver of registration fees for annual returns will benefit about 1.4 million companies.
Mr Hui added that he was pleased that the CR has been providing electronic services for filing of documents and company searches.
He appealed to the department to adopt wider use of technology, adding that a business-friendly environment is needed more than ever in the process of economic recovery.
Mr Hui also expressed gratitude to CR staff for their dedication in providing public services amid the pandemic.
Alfred Sit visits Science Park
Secretary for Innovation & Technology Alfred Sit today met representatives of the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC) and research and development centres (R&D) specialising in innovations winning recognition worldwide.
While touring the Hong Kong Science Park, Mr Sit visited the Hong Kong Applied Science & Technology Research Institute, the Logistics & Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre, the Nano & Advanced Materials Institute and HKSTPC.
He met representatives of HKSTPC start-ups that specialise in healthcare technology, artificial intelligence, chips, material science and vehicle safety technology. Some start-ups have participated in the StayHomeSafe mobile app.
Mr Sit noted that Science Park is a breeding ground for local innovation and technology that shows tremendous strength.
He emphasised that with the concerted efforts of the HKSTPC and all R&D centres, batches of R&D talent have been nurtured, with their innovations winning recognition worldwide.
Their work has also helped consolidate Hong Kong's R&D strengths, promote applied R&D and foster commercialisation of R&D results, he added.
On the application of technology solutions in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, the secretary pointed out that the electronic wristbands and StayHomeSafe mobile app used for home quarantine arrangements, the NASK Nanofiber Smart Mask supplied to the Hospital Authority and the CuMask are all R&D achievements from Science Park.
Mr Sit said he hoped that with the collaborative efforts of the HKSTPC and R&D centres, the I&T development in Hong Kong will be further promoted, driving economic development and improving people's livelihood.
Policy studies funding announced
About $31 million in funding has been given to support 79 projects under the special round of the Public Policy Research (PPR) Funding Scheme, the Government announced today.
A total of 210 applications were received for the special round, which was launched last November to fund local research institutions and think tanks to research topics relating to the underlying causes of the social incidents that took place in the second half of 2019.
The research may also cover important political, economic, cultural and societal issues relating to deep-seated problems of society.
Assessment of the applications received under the special round was conducted by the independent assessment panel chaired by and comprising experienced academics.
The research quality of the proposal and relevance to the themes of the special round were the principal assessment criteria, with consideration given to factors such as whether the research proposal was solution-oriented, feasible and practical, whether the methodology was reasonable and sound, the applicant’s capability and whether the proposed budget was cost-effective.
The assessment panel took a holistic view on each research proposal, reached a collective decision and made recommendations, the Policy Innovation & Co-ordination Office said, adding that a declaration of interest system was in place to ensure the assessments were fair and impartial.
In general, a sum of up to $500,000 has been granted to each approved project under the special round.
The approved projects have commenced progressively and are expected to be completed by the end of the year, with the first batch to be completed in late September to early October.
Click here for details of the funded projects.
Land advisory committee meets
The Development Bureau today briefed the Land & Development Advisory Committee on the major recommendations of the Planning & Urban Design Review for Developments at Kai Tak Runway Tip (KTRT).
Members noted the planning objectives, design principles and key study recommendations for the KTRT developments, including the existing and planned public open spaces as well as the Tourism Node site included in the 2020-21 Land Sale Programme.
They generally supported the recommendations of the KTRT study and provided comments on various aspects, such as ways to attract people to KTRT, the connectivity to and within the area, and promotion of healthy city and kid-friendly concepts.
The committee was also briefed on the proposed two-envelope tender arrangement, which refers to evaluation of both design and price proposals, for disposal of Site 3 of the New Central Harbourfront.
With a total area of 4.75 hectares, the site will comprise a commercial development in separate blocks mainly for office and retail, with a total gross floor area not exceeding 150,000 sq m, to be built alongside a spacious public open space of no less than 25,000 sq m to be opened round-the-clock.
There will be a continuous landscaped deck spanning across the site in a north-south direction, allowing visitors to walk all the way from the hinterland of the Central Business District to the harbourfront.
While noting that the two-envelope approach was rather unconventional for government land sale, members agreed that the approach would allow both quality and price considerations to be taken into account, and the setting of a reserve price would ensure reasonable protection to public revenue.
Foreign currency reserves up
Hong Kong’s foreign currency reserve assets rose to US$441.2 billion in April from March’s US$437.6 billion, the Monetary Authority announced today.
The reserve assets represent over six times the currency in circulation or about 46% of Hong Kong dollar M3.
Including unsettled foreign exchange contracts, the foreign currency reserve assets at the end of April increased to US$440.7 billion from March’s US$437.6 billion.
HKEx chief not to seek reappointment
Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Limited (HKEx) today announced that Charles Li will not seek reappointment as Chief Executive at the end of his current contract in October 2021.
The Government said it respected Mr Li's decision and expressed deep appreciation for his exemplary contribution to the development of the financial market during his tenure as HKEx Chief Executive in the past decade.
Since taking the helm in January 2010, he has led HKEx and Hong Kong’s capital market in achieving important breakthroughs one after another.
The vibrancy and growth that Mr Li has brought to Hong Kong in the capital market helps reinforce the status of Hong Kong as a leading international financial centre.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan said: "Thanks to his vision and leadership, Mr Li has laid a solid and strong foundation for our stock market, rendering Hong Kong the largest IPO market in the world for seven times in the past 11 years.
"He has been instrumental in the successful launch of mutual market access programmes between Hong Kong and the Mainland, notably the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect in 2014, which was expanded to include Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect in 2016 and Bond Connect in 2017.
"He also played a pivotal role in the launch of new listing regime in Hong Kong, the enhanced internationalisation of HKEx and its international visibility. These are all important achievements of HKEx in the past few years under Mr Li’s able leadership."
Mr Chan added that the Government is confident the HKEx board will continue to ensure the success of HKEx in the years to come.
Anti-epidemic fund committee meets
Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung today chaired the Anti-epidemic Fund Steering Committee's fifth meeting to examine the implementation progress of the host of measures launched under the fund.
The committee noted the details of over 20 second-round relief measures have been announced since the Legislative Council Finance Committee approved the $120.5 billion injection to the fund on April 18.
Other measures will be launched as soon as possible to provide timely relief to the affected sectors and individuals.
The committee also noted that the fund has paid out over $13 billion, and many businesses and members of the public have gradually received subsidies.
Mr Cheung said the measures aim to preserve employment and assist the self-employed, provide additional relief to those sectors hard hit by the pandemic and pave the way for the post-pandemic economic recovery.
“We will continue to process applications and disburse subsidies as soon as possible to help businesses and members of the public tackle the challenges caused by the pandemic and to support enterprises, safeguard jobs and relieve people’s burden," he stressed.
For the Retail Sector Subsidy Scheme which provides a one-off subsidy of $80,000 to eligible retailers, about 93,000 applications were received.
The committee was pleased to note that the scheme has been disbursing subsidies progressively and over $2.7 billion in subsidies have been approved so far, involving about 33,000 applications.
ID card replacement to resume
The Immigration Department announced today that the operation of all nine Smart Identity Card Replacement Centres will be fully resumed on May 11 in light of the more stabilised epidemic situation.
The department earlier suspended the replacement of Hong Kong identity cards at the centres to avoid the increased risk of spreading COVID-19.
To arrange for people affected by the service suspension to replace their identity cards in an orderly manner, the Secretary for Security has made an amendment order to revise the replacement period for people born in 1957 to 1963 and 1970 to 1976 and the arrangement for members of the sixth term of District Councils.
Click here for the arrangements.
If the replacement of identity cards needs to be suspended again in the future to cope with a sudden turn of the epidemic situation, the amendment order also provides that if all the centres are not in service for a period of 21 working days or more from May 11 to July 27 for public health reasons, the specified period for the above people will be further extended or amended.
The amendment order will be tabled at the Legislative Council on May 13 for negative vetting.
To reduce crowd gatherings, applicants who have not made appointments previously should do so via the Internet, the department’s mobile application or the 24-hour hotline at 2121 1234.
The department also appealed to applicants to pre-fill the application form when making appointments through the Internet or mobile application.
For details click here or call 2824 6111.
Support scheme applications set
The Government will launch the Subsidy Scheme for Beauty Parlours, Massage Establishments & Party Rooms under the second round of the Anti-epidemic Fund on May 11.
A sum of $1.1 billion has been earmarked for the scheme, which is expected to benefit 12,400 beauty parlours and massage establishments as well as 500 party rooms.
The subsidy is expected to be disbursed from late this month.
Under the scheme, each eligible beauty parlour or massage establishment will receive a one-off tiered subsidy of $30,000, $60,000 or $100,000, depending on its number of workers.
Each eligible party room will receive a one-off subsidy of $40,000.
Applications will only be accepted online. The application deadline is May 17.
The scheme also covers premises which are operated by social enterprises.
For premises with business registration, social enterprise operators should file their applications through the online application system.
Those without business registration should directly approach the Hong Kong Council of Social Service at 2864 2993 or by email to obtain its certification and submit their applications.
Call 1836 188 or send an email for enquiries.
Coach drivers scheme opens
The Tour Service Coach Drivers (Mainly Serving Tourists) Support Scheme, under the second round of the Anti-epidemic Fund, is open for applications from today to June 5, the Government announced.
The scheme will provide each tour service coach driver with a one-off subsidy of $10,000 and aims to benefit about 9,300 drivers.
In addition, the Government explained that the second round of the Anti-epidemic Fund includes other tourism industry support measures.
Applications for the Hotel Sector Support Scheme are being accepted until May 18, while the deadline to apply for the Travel Agents & Practitioners Support Scheme is June 15.
Click here for more details.
More rent concessions approved
The Housing Authority’s Commercial Properties Committee today approved the extension of rent concessions to over 8,300 non-domestic tenants or licensees for six months from April 1 to September 30.
The authority had earlier granted a 50% rent concession to its eligible retail and factory tenants for six months from April 1.
Under the extension, their rent concession will be increased to 75% over the same period with retrospective effect from April 1. The rent concession does not include rates and air-conditioning charges.
The authority said such further measures are to support the Government's new series of measures announced in early April to relieve the financial burden of individuals and businesses.
A total of 2,450 retail and 3,300 factory tenants will benefit from the approved increase in the rent concession.
The 75% rent concession will also be extended to cover tenants and licensees of bus kiosks and most advertising signboards, as well as car park users for the monthly parking of commercial vehicles.
About 40 tenancies for bus kiosks, 80 advertising signboards and about 2,500 car park users stand to benefit from the concession.
Tenants of premises in the authority's properties which are required to be closed under relevant regulations or the Government's directions, may also apply to the authority for a 100% rent concession for the period during which they are required to be closed.
The authority added that the approved measures will be implemented as soon as possible. For rent and licence fees already paid for the months of April and May, arrangements will be made for offsetting in the payment for subsequent months.
The committee has approved three rounds of rent concessions since last September. Together with this round, the total rent and licence fees foregone by the authority is estimated to reach more than $1 billion.
Honours, awards exercise deferred
The 2020 honours and awards selection and appointment of Justices of the Peace (JPs) exercise will be postponed, as well as the announcement of the list of honours and awards and JP appointments, the Government announced today.
It decided to defer the exercise to accord top priority to the ongoing anti-epidemic work and implementation of measures to retain employment, support businesses and ease people's livelihood in the face of challenges arising from the COVID-19 epidemic.
The Honours List and JP appointments will be announced on October 1 instead of July 1 as in previous years, the Government added.
Alleged rule breaches probed
(To watch the full press briefing with sign language interpretation, click here.)
Chief Executive Carrie Lam today said law enforcement agencies are investigating cases where police officers are suspected of breaching property rules and will give a full account to society.
Speaking to reporters before the Executive Council meeting this morning, Mrs Lam said nobody is above the law.
“The law will be applied in the same manner regardless of the status, the background, the political affiliation of that particular person.
“As far as I am concerned, as the Chief Executive of Hong Kong and also as an individual, no law-breaking behaviour is acceptable. But it is not for me to stand here to judge each and every case because every case or every complaint has to be investigated and analysed by the law enforcement agencies.
“I am sure that they will do it as diligently as possible and will give a full account to society, especially given the recent concerns.”
House Committee status explained
(To watch the full media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)
Chief Executive Carrie Lam today said the prevailing chairwoman of the Legislative Council House Committee should have the responsibility and power to deal with the matters of the committee.
Mrs Lam made the statement ahead of the Executive Council meeting this morning, noting LegCo President Andrew Leung had sought advice from outside senior counsel on how to address the delay in electing the committee’s chairman.
She said the senior counsels have observed that many of the matters raised in the House Committee’s meetings by the presiding member in the past six months have been irrelevant to the purpose of electing the committee’s chairman and vice-chairman.
“The second point that the senior counsels have observed during their very detailed scrutiny of the deliberations is that there was at least one occasion on March 13 in the House Committee meeting that gave people a very clear impression that the delaying of the election by the presiding member of the House Committee was quite deliberate and deliberate for political reasons.
“And the third thing that I observed from the senior counsels’ advice is, having regard to all these circumstances, they are of the firm view - this is the word taken from the senior counsels’ statement - that the prevailing chairwoman of the House Committee should have the responsibility and the power to deal with the business of the House Committee.”
The Chief Executive added that she expects the committee’s prevailing chairwoman Starry Lee to exercise her power.
Drug delivery scheme examined
Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang today visited the temporary operation centre for the special scheme for delivering urgently needed prescription medication to Hong Kong people in Guangdong and Fujian.
Under the compulsory quarantine arrangements, many Hong Kong people who are staying in Guangdong and Fujian provinces are unable to attend follow-up consultations in Hong Kong to replenish their prescription medication and return to the Mainland on the same day.
The Government introduced a special scheme on February 24 to deliver medicine to them, with priority given to those who would run out of prescription medication by end-April.
Mr Tsang was pleased to learn that as of April 29, prescription medication deliveries had been made to more than 7,600 Hong Kong residents in need.
He thanked the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions for offering voluntary services for the drug delivery scheme with its well-established service networks on the Mainland.
Mr Tsang also thanked the Pharmaceutical Society of Hong Kong and Hong Kong Pharmaceutical Care Foundation for deploying pharmacists to the temporary operation centre to help verify drug records and patients' information.
During his visit, he gave encouragement to participating volunteers and thanked them for their support for the scheme.
Mr Tsang said as the expiry date for the Compulsory Quarantine of Certain Persons Arriving at Hong Kong Regulation has been extended to June 7, the special scheme will be extended and give priority to cases in which prescription drugs will run out on or before that date.
Call 2343 2255 for enquiries about the scheme.
Patrick Nip visits IRD, Labour Dep't
Secretary for the Civil Service Patrick Nip today visited the Inland Revenue Department and the Labour Department to inspect the resumption of public services.
The Government had earlier announced that public services will be resumed under a phased approach.
Counter services of most government departments have returned to normal.
Mr Nip first visited the Inland Revenue Department in Revenue Tower and was briefed on counter services at the Central Enquiry Counter, the Business Registration Office and the Stamp Office.
He learnt that the department has implemented various infection control and crowd management measures, such as a ticketing system, to safeguard the health of colleagues and the public.
Later Mr Nip visited the Hong Kong East Job Centre and a recruitment centre for the catering and retail industries and was briefed on the resumption of normal services at the Labour Department's job and recruitment centres.
He said: “While maintaining a high degree of vigilance and adopting all necessary precautionary measures, the Government gradually resumed public services today in a smooth and orderly manner.
“Various infection control measures have been put in place at government buildings and offices. These include checking the body temperature of persons at entrances, providing alcohol-based hand sanitiser and enhancing the cleaning of public facilities.
“The Government will closely monitor the situation to determine when to embark on full resumption of normal business.”
Complaints impartially probed
The Government has mechanisms to investigate complaints against civil servants impartially, Secretary for the Civil Service Patrick Nip said today.
Mr Nip made the remarks in response to media queries on recent allegations levelled against senior police officers.
He said: “There are established mechanisms to investigate every complaint in accordance with the procedures and rules. Depending on the circumstances and the case details, some are being handled by departments and bureaus. Some may be handled by the Civil Service Bureau.
“There are established mechanisms in dealing with that. Of course we would handle each and every complaint in a very serious and impartial manner.”
More services resume May 4
To align with the phased resumption of public services, the Information Services Department, Government Records Service and Civil Aviation Department have announced their latest arrangements.
The Information Services Department will resume sales counter services at its Publications Sales Unit and Photo Library at North Point Government Offices from May 4.
The sales office will be open from 9am to 12.30pm and from 2pm to 6pm from Monday to Friday.
To reduce social contact and avoid people gathering, citizens are encouraged to purchase government publications and photos through the online bookstore and photo store.
The Government Records Service's Public Records Office will provide search room services, including onsite loan and circulation services, from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.45pm, for people who have made reservations through the online catalogue.
The office will also resume search room services from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays for people to inspect holdings which have been reserved online.
Requests by up to 15 users will be accepted for search room services for each open day on a first-come, first-served basis. Users will be notified of the reservation results by email.
Visitor and public education programmes will continue to be suspended, while the Exhibition Hall at the Public Records Building will be temporarily closed for preparation of the new thematic exhibition until further notice.
Enquiries can be made to 2195 7700 or via email.
The Civil Aviation Department’s Personnel Licensing Office will continue to provide counter services from next Monday and resume relevant licensing examinations.
The office's opening hours are 8.45am to 12.45pm and 1.45pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Enquiries can be made to 2910 6046 or via email.
Click here for the latest public service arrangements.
Foreign politicians' remarks refuted
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has rejected allegations made by certain officials and politicians in the United States, United Kingdom and European Parliament relating to an April 18 arrest operation and other security matters.
In a statement today, the Hong Kong SAR Government said such allegations were totally unfounded and amounted to a serious intervention in Hong Kong's affairs.
The SAR Government strongly disagreed with the grossly irresponsible remarks and expressed deep regret about them.
It pointed out that since its return to the Motherland, the HKSAR has maintained stability and prosperity under the principle of "one country, two systems", exercising "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" and a high degree of autonomy in strict accordance with the Basic Law (BL).
"The Central Government has time and again reiterated that it will unswervingly implement the policy of one country, two systems' and make sure that it is fully applied in Hong Kong without being bent or distorted.
“How to implement the policy in the HKSAR - an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China (BL Article 1) and a local administrative region of the People's Republic of China which shall enjoy a high degree of autonomy and come directly under the Central People's Government (BL Article 12) - are entirely internal affairs of the People's Republic of China.
“No other state has the right to intervene, directly or indirectly, in those internal affairs.”
The statement noted Hong Kong people enjoy extensive rights and freedoms which are enshrined in the Basic Law. Basic Law Article 4 states that the HKSAR shall safeguard the rights and freedoms of the residents and of other persons in the region in accordance with law.
“In addition, human rights and freedoms in Hong Kong are fully protected by the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance and other legislation, and underpinned by an independent judiciary."
The SAR Government said it always respects and protects human rights and freedoms. Any allegation that there has been an erosion in freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong people is unfounded.
However, these rights are not absolute. As pointed out by the Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal at the Ceremonial Opening of the Legal Year 2020: "It is important to understand that the enjoyment of these rights has limits so as not to affect adversely to an unacceptable level the enjoyment by other members of their community of their rights and liberties."
There are clear limits in the law as to the exercise of these rights. When the law is broken, action will be taken in accordance with the criminal justice system.
"We therefore take great exception to comments made by officials and politicians in foreign countries concerning the recent arrests and prosecution of a number of persons for organising and participating in unauthorised assemblies in Hong Kong.
“The allegation by some that those arrests amounted to an attack on Hong Kong's freedoms and a breach of the BL is absurd and can hardly stand the test of any law-abiding jurisdiction," the statement emphasised.
It also pointed out that Basic Law Article 63 provides that "The Department of Justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region shall control criminal prosecutions, free from any interference."
Prosecutors have always been discharging this constitutional duty independently and professionally, without fear or favour. Prosecutorial decisions are based on an objective assessment of all admissible evidence and applicable laws, made strictly in accordance with the Prosecution Code which is available to the public.
Cases will not be handled any differently owing to the political beliefs or background of the persons involved.
When law enforcement agencies have completed their investigation, they would seek legal advice from the Department of Justice. The prosecutors would carefully consider the investigation reports and relevant materials submitted. A prosecution would only be commenced if the prosecutor is satisfied that there is sufficient admissible evidence to support a reasonable prospect of conviction.
In short, the well-established procedures of Hong Kong's criminal justice system include the independent investigations by law enforcement agencies, the independent prosecutorial decisions based on the objective assessment of evidence, applicable laws and in accordance with the Prosecution Code, and finally, open trials by an independent judiciary.
"The guarantee of judicial independence is explicitly set out in the BL and the quality of the judgments of our courts contributes to the much respected judiciary and rule of law in the HKSAR.
"We therefore note with abhorrence certain overseas politicians' request that the HKSAR Government should drop the charges against the arrested individuals. If we were to accede or to be seen to yield to such unreasonable demands, we would not only be unfair and unprofessional but would also act in violation of the spirit of the rule of law – a core value in Hong Kong," the statement added.
The SAR Government remains steadfast to uphold the rule of law. The latest Rule of Law Index 2020 released by the World Justice Project, in which Hong Kong maintains its ranking as No. 5 in the East Asia and Pacific Region and No. 16 globally, several places ahead of the United States, has clearly affirmed Hong Kong's commitment.
On legislating for Basic Law Article 23, the statement said, "The HKSAR Government has the constitutional duty to ensure that the necessary legislation is in place to safeguard national security.
“Having laws in place to protect national security is common in many jurisdictions, and we do not see how any defence of sovereignty and security by a jurisdiction would impact on its local and overseas investment.
“Coincidentally, it is relevant to note security issues arising from the social unrest last year were part of the causes affecting Hong Kong's score under 'Investment Freedom' according to the US-based Heritage Foundation 2020 Index of Economic Freedom."
As regards enquiries about the role of the Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office of the State Council (HKMAO) and the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government (LOCPG) in the HKSAR, they represent the Central People's Government to which the HKSAR comes directly under pertaining to Basic Law Article 12.
These offices have the power and responsibility over the proper and full implementation of the Basic Law and "one country, two systems" in Hong Kong.
It is therefore clearly legitimate for the HKMAO and LOCPG to recently express their concerns over the prolonged paralysis of the Legislative Council House Committee, thereby hindering LegCo's performance of its legislative functions under the Basic Law.
"Any suggestion that those legitimate remarks by the HKMAO and the LOCPG amount to interference only illustrates an ignorance of the constitutional order of the HKSAR and its relationship with the Central Authorities," the SAR Government added.
Public services resume May 4
To align with the phased resumption of public services, various government departments have announced their latest arrangements.
The Department of Justice’s public services will resume normal from May 4. The reception counters of the department’s Prosecutions Division and Civil Division will be open Monday to Friday from 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm.
The Legal Aid Department’s offices will resume normal office hours on May 4 to provide public services including civil and criminal legal aid application and litigation services.
The Government Logistics Department’s collection office will resume normal operation from May 4 and open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm.
The Lands Department's offices will resume public counter services and enquiry telephone lines on May 4, providing services such as payment of government rent and premiums, map sales, and collection of compensation for land resumption.
Except for the surveying services to be conducted outside Hong Kong, all services of the Marine Department will resume starting May 4.
The Rating & Valuation Department will resume normal operation of public services from May 4, with its enquiry counters opening from 8.15am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, except on public holidays.
The Civil Engineering & Development Department said office hours for the Civil Engineering Library, applications for dumping licences and sand removal permits, and the Mines Division’s Permit & Licensing Office will return to normal on May 4.
Public services of the Water Supplies Department, the Planning Department, the Drainage Services Department and the Inland Revenue Department will resume normal on May 4.
Starting from May 4, the Registration & Electoral Office’s enquiry counter and offices, the Buildings Department and the Environmental Protection Department’s public counter services and service counters under the Labour Department will reopen.
The Independent Commission Against Corruption's headquarters and regional offices will also resume normal services from May 4.
The Housing Authority's estate management offices, Public Rental Housing Application Office in the Lok Fu Customer Service Centre, the Clearance Housing Office and the Redevelopment Sub-section Offices will reinstate normal services from that date.
Flat selection sessions of the Territory-wide Overcrowding Relief Exercise, the Living Space Improvement Transfer Scheme and Sale of Home Ownership Scheme Flats 2019 will gradually resume from May 8.
Click here for the latest public service arrangements.
Patrick Nip inspects public services
Secretary for the Civil Service Patrick Nip today visited the Transport Department (TD) and the Social Welfare Department (SWD) to learn more about the preparations made by both departments to resume public services.
The Government announced that the resumption of public services will start from May 4 under a phased approach.
While the TD will resume road tests on that day, written tests will resume on May 26.
The SWD will also gradually resume the services of its Integrated Family Service Centres (IFSC).
Mr Nip first visited the driving test centre in Ho Man Tin where he was briefed by the Commissioner for Transport Mable Chan on arrangements for the resumption of road tests and the implementation of infection control measures at driving test centres.
Such measures will require candidates to wear surgical masks and undergo body temperature screening at entrances.
As for the written tests, Mr Nip said he was pleased to learn that the TD will keep seats apart at appropriate distances and step up cleansing of computers at test centres.
Mr Nip then visited the Causeway Bay Integrated Family Service Centre where he was briefed on the plan to gradually resume services at IFSCs and measures to reduce social contact.
Mr Nip also learned that various infection control measures to safeguard the health of colleagues as well as service users will be put in place. For example, group activities will be conducted for no more than four participants and physical partitioning will be erected in meeting rooms for counselling services.
Mr Nip emphasised that many people hope that the Government can provide more public services when the epidemic situation becomes stable.
“I am pleased to learn that the departments have made all the necessary preparations for providing the services needed by the public while striving to safeguard public health.
“Government departments will continue to maintain a high degree of vigilance and adopt all the necessary precautionary measures. The Government will also closely monitor the situation and determine when to embark on a full resumption of normal business.”
Mr Nip expressed hope that the public will continue to fight the virus together with the Government.
He also thanked civil servants for their commitment and dedicated efforts to serve the public during the epidemic.
Fixed-rate mortgage scheme opens
The Mortgage Corporation today announced that the pilot scheme for fixed-rate mortgages will start receiving applications from May 7.
The aggregate loan amount of the Fixed-rate Mortgage Pilot Scheme is $1 billion, subject to a maximum loan amount of each private residential mortgage of $10 million.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan said the pilot scheme, announced in the 2020-21 Budget, provides an alternative financing option to homebuyers for mitigating their risks arising from interest rate volatility, thereby promoting the development of the mortgage market in the long run.
In response to the change in market interest rates, mortgage interest rates under the pilot scheme have been lowered, as compared to the levels previously announced in the Budget. The interest rates per annum for 10, 15 and 20 years are 2.55%, 2.65% and 2.75%.
Mortgages under the pilot scheme will be offered through Bank of China, Chong Hing Bank, Dah Sing Bank, Industrial & Commercial Bank of China, Shanghai Commercial Bank, Standard Chartered Bank and The Bank of East Asia.
At the end of the fixed-rate period, borrowers may either re-fix the mortgage rate under fixed-rate mortgages or convert the mortgage to a loan on a floating rate, which is the prime rate minus 2.35%.
The pilot scheme will be effective until October 31.
Mar retail sales fall 42%
The value of total retail sales in March, provisionally estimated at $23 billion, fell 42% compared with the same month in 2019, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.
After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the volume of total retail sales decreased 43.8% year-on-year.
The value of sales of food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco decreased 21.2%.
This was followed by commodities in department stores (-42.7% in value); other consumer goods, not elsewhere classified (-29.1%); electrical goods and other consumer durable goods, not elsewhere classified (-39.6%); jewellery, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts (-75.2%); medicines and cosmetics (-63.8%); wearing apparel (-67.2%); motor vehicles and parts (-19.8%); fuels (-8%); furniture and fixtures (-14.4%); books, newspapers, stationery and gifts (-48.4%); Chinese drugs and herbs (-51.7%); footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (-60.6%); and optical shops (-46.6%).
The value of sales of commodities in supermarkets increased 16.1% for the period.
The Government said retail sales continued to plummet in March as the COVID‑19 pandemic and resulting anti-epidemic measures brought inbound tourism to a standstill and seriously disrupted consumption-related activities.
For the first quarter as a whole, the volume of retail sales fell 36.9% year-on-year, the largest decline for a single quarter on record.
Noting that the business environment for retail trade will remain very difficult in the near term amid the deep economic recession and sharp deterioration in the labour market, the Government said it will closely monitor the developments.
Catering business subsidy set
The Food & Environmental Hygiene Department announced that applications for the Catering Business (Social Distancing) Subsidy Scheme, under the second round of the Anti-epidemic Fund, will start from May 5.
The department said the scheme, which is estimated to benefit 16,000 catering outlets and their employees, will provide financial relief measures to the catering businesses which have been hard hit by the COVID-19 epidemic and social distancing measures.
It will provide subsidies ranging from $250,000 to $2,200,000 to eligible licence holders of general restaurants, light refreshment restaurants, marine restaurants and factory canteens in operation according to the floor area of the premises as specified on the licence.
The primary goal of the scheme is to support the payment of employees' salaries during a six-month period following application approval.
To provide immediate relief to the catering sector, the subsidy will be dished out upfront, in two tranches.
To avoid abuse, applicants should undertake that there will be no redundancy of staff for three months on receipt of the first tranche of subsidy and another three months on receipt of the second tranche.
They should also undertake that not less than 80% of the subsidies for respective months would be used to pay salaries of staff working at the premises.
Applicants should submit within a specified period a certificate issued by a Certified Public Accountant (practising) on its total staff salaries and total number of salaried staff for each of the months covered by the subsidy.
They should also submit a certificate issued by a CPA on its total staff salaries and total number of staff working at the premises for the month of March this year.
To avoid double benefits, applicants should declare that they have not and will not submit any application under the Employment Support Scheme.
Each catering outlet directed to close its licensed premises under the Prevention & Control of Disease (Requirements & Directions) (Business & Premises) Regulation, including karaoke establishments, nightclubs and bars or pubs, is eligible for a further one-off subsidy of $50,000.
Applications should be submitted to the department's District Environmental Hygiene Offices in person or by mail. Food licence holders can also submit their applications through the website.
The deadline for application is June 5.
Upon receipt of the completed application form and supporting documents and after verification, the disbursement of the first tranche of subsidies can generally be made in two to three weeks by crossed cheques to the corresponding licensed food premises.
Mask production subsidies reassigned
The Commerce & Economic Development Bureau today announced that the subsidy quota for three mask production lines have been reassigned.
Three production lines, previously approved under the Local Mask Production Subsidy Scheme, have withdrawn from the scheme, the Government said.
The subsidy quota concerned has been allocated to SDL Skin (Asia), Safeguard HK and SwissTech.
SDL Skin (Asia) has been approved for obtaining a subsidy for a second production line and is expected to supply an average of 1.6 million masks every month to the Government. The production line may receive a subsidy of up to $1 million.
Safeguard HK has been approved for obtaining a subsidy for one production line and is expected to supply an average of 500,000 masks to the Government every month. The production line may receive up to $2 million.
SwissTech has been approved for obtaining a subsidy for one production line and is expected to supply an average of 2 million masks every month to the Government and produce a further 1 million masks on average monthly for the local market.
The production line may receive up to $3 million.
It is estimated that when all 20 subsidised lines under the scheme are in full production, they will collectively supply 33.85 million masks to the Government and a further 7.15 million to the local market monthly.
The companies which withdrew from the scheme were CareHK and Shang Manufactory.
The Government did not sign agreements with or make disbursements to these firms.
60k workers received allowance
Some 60,000 workers of over 340 contractors received the first round of allowance under the Anti-epidemic Fund, the Government said today.
The Government explained that it has been making use of the fund to provide allowances to eligible cleansing and security workers engaged by service contractors of the Government and Housing Authority.
Front-line cleansing workers, toilet attendants and security workers employed by the service contractors can receive a monthly allowance of $1,000 for a period of no fewer than four months throughout the epidemic period.
The first round of funding amounted to some $60 million.
Eligible workers who performed duties in March have received the $1,000 allowance applicable to that month.
Arrangements were made for the April allowance to be issued concurrently with the salary of that month.
Front-line workers are not required to submit any application for the allowance.
The departments and the Housing Authority entered into agreements with their contractors to ensure the transfer of the allowance to eligible workers.
The Government said the allowance aims to provide financial support to cleansing and security staff engaged by service contractors in anti-epidemic efforts, and gives recognition for their committed services at this critical juncture.
Economy dips 8.9% in Q1
(To watch the whole media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)
Hong Kong's economy in the first quarter of 2020 contracted 8.9% over a year earlier, the largest decline on record since 1974.
The Census & Statistics Department announced the findings today as it released advance estimates on Gross Domestic Product for the first quarter.
Addressing the media today, Financial Secretary Paul Chan noted the economic recession deepened in Hong Kong in the first quarter of 2020.
“Although locally, the epidemic situation seems to be under control, but the external environment is still very challenging. Globally, the epidemic is yet to be put under complete control. That will affect our exports. That will also affect international travelling and business investments.
“So, going forward in the second quarter, we believe that even if there is improvement, the improvement will be gradual and small.”
According to those estimates, private consumption expenditure decreased 10.2% in real terms in the first quarter from a year earlier, deteriorating from the 2.9% decline in the fourth quarter of 2019.
Government consumption expenditure grew 8.3% year-on-year, after the increase of 6.1% in the fourth quarter of 2019.
Gross domestic fixed capital formation dropped by 13.9%, compared with the decrease of 16.8% in the previous quarter.
Over the same period, total exports of goods declined 9.7% and imports of goods also fell 10.9%.
Exports of services dropped 37.8% and imports of services decreased 25.4%.
Mr Chan called on people to work together to promote economic development by consumption.
“If we are able to work together, if we can unite together - not just to fight the virus, but to stimulate consumption to promote economic development - I think the economic situation will be able to stabilise somewhat in the second quarter.
“If the global epidemic situation improves, we will be able to come out of recession gradually towards the end of this year.
“I will appeal to our people's support for us to roll out various measures in the Anti-epidemic Fund - round one and round two - as well as the relief packages in the 2020-21 Budget as soon as possible.
“Many of those initiatives are still yet to be implemented. Upon full implementation of those measures, I think the positive impact on the economy would be better felt by the community. We will be monitoring the situation carefully.”
The Government stands ready to roll out additional measures to support Hong Kong people and the businesses, Mr Chan added.
Exemption for manufacturers set
The Government today announced the mechanism for Hong Kong enterprises with manufacturing operations in the Mainland to apply for exemption from the compulsory quarantine arrangement.
It said the Trade & Industry Department has started processing applications.
The Chief Secretary may designate anybody or category of people for exemption from quarantine if their travelling is necessary for purposes relating to manufacturing operations in the interest of Hong Kong's economic development.
With effect from May 4, the Chief Secretary has exempted two categories of people from the quarantine arrangement.
They include owners of Hong Kong enterprises with a valid business registration certificate and with manufacturing operations in the Mainland and up to one person employed and authorised by the enterprise, as well as up to two people employed and authorised by such an enterprise.
Exempted people must only travel to and stay in the city where the Mainland factory of their Hong Kong enterprise's manufacturing operations is located and must take every precautionary measure to ensure personal hygiene and avoid unnecessary social contact.
After returning to Hong Kong, they will be subject to medical surveillance arranged by the Department of Health during their stay in Hong Kong and will be required to wear masks and have their body temperatures checked daily.
They will also have to report any discomfort to the Department of Health.
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Act together to revive economy
The Government is set to revive the economy through different measures and everyone should act together to attain this goal.
Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui made the remarks today after attending a radio programme, saying the economy has been seriously affected by the epidemic.
“I think right now the immediate priority is definitely to revive the economy because after all, we have been subjected to many restrictions on all you can imagine in the past few months due to COVID-19.
“So the immediate priority is really for us to act together to revive the economy through different measures.
“And the measures that are subject to the Legislative Council’s approval as you have seen over the past few days, I think are definitely something that we want to do in order to provide a sort of foundation for our economic recovery.”
Timely subsidy disbursement urged
Property management companies and owners’ organisations which have successfully applied for an anti-epidemic support scheme were reminded today to disburse the hardship allowance to frontline workers as soon as practicable upon receiving the subsidies.
The Home Affairs Department said the workers concerned shall acknowledge receipt of the allowance using the prescribed forms.
The property management companies or owners’ organisations shall submit a report on the allowance’s overall payment to the Property Management Services Authority within three months of receiving the subsidies.
The department and/or the authority will conduct a random review and check to ensure that the frontline property management workers have received the allowance.
As of today, more than 8,160 applications have been received for the Anti-epidemic Support Scheme for Property Management Sector under the Anti-epidemic Fund.
About 2,850 applications have been approved, involving more than $100 million in subsidies and benefitting more than 17,500 building blocks and about 25,500 frontline workers.
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EDB, AFCD to resume services
The Education Bureau and the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department (AFCD) today announced their latest arrangements on public services starting May 4.
All Regional Education Offices, the Joint Office for Kindergartens & Child Care Centres, the School Places Allocation Section, the Qualifications Framework Secretariat and other service units will resume normal opening hours from May 4.
However, the Hong Kong Teachers' Centre, Special Education Resource Centre, Central Resources Centre and Young Achievers' Gallery located at Kowloon Tong Education Services Centre, as well as the Arts & Technology Education Centre will remain closed until further notice.
The AFCD’s licensing services and reception counters at Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices and the Marine Parks Office at CDW Building in Tsuen Wan will resume normal services Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5.45pm.
The anti-rabies dog inoculation and dog licensing services at the animal management centres will also resume as normal from May 4.
Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Wetland Park (except some indoor facilities and play areas), eight Country Park Visitor/Education Centres, seven Hong Kong Geopark Park Visitor Centres and the Endangered Species Resources Centre will reopen from May 4.
However, school and public programmes will remain suspended until further notice.
The barbecue sites and campsites in country parks will also continue to be closed until May 7.
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Gov't committed to labour rights
The Government said it will continue to spare no effort in improving workers' benefits and protection and enhance occupational safety and health in various industries at a pace commensurate with Hong Kong's overall socio-economic development.
The Government made the statement today in response to the demands of different labour groups, noting that it would take into account both employees' interests and employers' abilities to afford the benefits, despite the severe blow dealt by the COVID-19 epidemic to the local economy.
"The seasonally adjusted unemployment and underemployment rates for January to March this year have soared to their highest levels in recent years. The labour market will continue to face significant pressure in the near term.
“The Government has rolled out relief measures of unprecedented scale, including the one-off measures in the 2020-21 Budget and two rounds of measures under the Anti-epidemic Fund (AEF) totalling $287.5 billion, with a view to preserving the vitality of the economy and relieving people's financial burden.
“The Government will launch as soon as possible the Employment Support Scheme under the second round of the AEF, with a total commitment of $81 billion, to provide time-limited financial support to employers to help them retain employees who will otherwise be made redundant.”
Moreover, the Government explained that it has earmarked $6 billion to create around 30,000 time-limited jobs in the public and private sectors in the coming two years for people with different skills and academic qualifications.
It emphasised that the Labour Department will raise the ceiling of on-the-job training allowance payable to employers under the Employment Programme for the Elderly & Middle-aged, the Youth Employment & Training Programme and the Work Orientation & Placement Scheme in the second half of this year.
It will also launch a pilot scheme to encourage eligible participants of these programmes to undergo and complete the training by offering a retention allowance.
On improvements to other labour benefits, the Government pointed out that it is working at full steam on the preparatory work to abolish the arrangement of 'offsetting' severance payments and long service payments with employers' mandatory contributions under the Mandatory Provident Fund System.
It stressed that it will strive to introduce the enabling bill into the Legislative Council by the end of this year, aiming to secure its passage by 2022.
Meanwhile, the Government introduced the Employment (Amendment) Bill 2019 into LegCo on January 8 this year. The bill, which proposes to extend statutory maternity leave by four weeks, is now being handled by the LegCo Panel on Manpower.
The Chief Executive announced on January 14 this year 10 new initiatives on improving people's livelihood, one of which is to increase progressively the number of statutory holidays so that it will be on par with that of general holidays.
The Government stated that it will work out the relevant proposal, invite the Labour Advisory Board to discuss, and will facilitate and support its work.
The Minimum Wage Commission is conducting a new round of review on the Statutory Minimum Wage rate and will submit a report on its recommendation to the Chief Executive in Council by end-October.
The Government added that it attaches great importance to employees' occupational safety and health.
It said the Labour Department has been adjusting its strategies of inspection and enforcement, publicity and promotion, education and training according to the occupational safety and health risk levels of different industries as well as taking sufficient precautionary measures to prevent accidents by driving employers and employees to work together.