Hong Kong Passes Workplace Smoking Ban Bill [04/29-2]
Excerpts from: Hong Kong publishes bill banning smoking in bars, restaurants
Yahoo News [04/29/05]
The Hong Kong government published a bill extending anti-smoking laws to nearly
all public indoor areas including restaurants, bars and workplaces.
The bill, which includes restrictions on tobacco advertising and promotion, would also bar smoking in schools, karaoke bars, mahjong parlours, commercial bath-houses and nursing homes.
"The danger and harmful effects of tobacco is no long in doubt. The current law isn't enough. The (extension) will ensure the health of staff and customers can be properly protected," Leung Ting-hung, deputy director of the Health, told reporters.
Smoking, which is estimated to kill about 5,700 people every year in Hong Kong, is already banned in cinemas, shopping malls, supermarkets, banks and department stores.
Smoking at home, in hotel rooms and in smoking areas of airports will be exempt from the new law, which gives affected premises a three-month grace period.
In line with other anti-smoking legislation across the world, tobacco manufacturers will have to print pictorial health warnings over no less than half their products' packaging. They will be given a year to comply.
"We are hoping that the images would deter people from smoking and help them to understand the various dangers caused by smoking. This is found to be effective," Leung said.
Anyone breaking the new law, which will be introduced to the Legislative Council on May 11, will be liable to a 5,000 dollar (641 US dollars) fine.
This information is presented as a public service by:
Action on Smoking and Health (ASH)
2013 H Street NW / Washington, DC 20006 / (202) 659-4310
A national nonprofit, scientific and educational organization founded in 1967.
All donations are fully tax deductible.
Material on this page may be freely reproduced, distributed, and circulated
with attribution given to Action on Smoking and Health.
Dedicated to Mr. and Mrs. Warren Wells