Source: CCTV.com

01-02-2007 16:22

Smoking is now banned in public spaces in Hong Kong. The new law went into effect on Monday, and heavy fines will be imposed on anyone who breaks it. Public response has been mixed.

Hong Kong has 800,000 daily smokers, or about fourteen percent of the population. As of the first day of 2007, they will find themselves clearly unwelcome in most public places. Even smoking in the street can lead to fines as high as 500 Hong Kong dollars.

Many Hong Kong residents are in favor of the new regulation, however. They say this will make life in the city healthier.

A parent said "It's much better now. It used to be very polluted and the health of children could be affected."

But others are not happy about the ban. They say it's their right to smoke and the government's decision is self-contradictory.

Miss Chan, a smoker, said "It's not right. The government taxes us on cigarettes but will not let us smoke here. There is no reason to allow the selling of cigarettes but not the right to smoke."

Warning signs are now clearly visible in most public places such as beaches, stadiums, parks, and playgrounds. Some owners of bars and restaurants say that although the new ban may have negative effect on their business, they will still stop their customers from lighting up.

A restaurant manager, Kwok Wing-Ki said "Customers should abide by the government's regulation. Only one or two customers have been smoking, but they'd put out their cigarettes as soon as we told them to. People are still not used to the new ban."

Currently, Italy and Ireland, as well as some cities in Australia and the US, have similar bans in place. Hong Kong is determined to join them. Although smoking areas will be designated in certain spots as a concession to heavy smokers, officials believe quitting is still the best solution for them.

Editor:Du Xiaodan