Updated on Jan 03, 2009 – SCMP
I totally object to any delay of the full smoking ban.
Pollution in Hong Kong and globally has reached alarming levels, and smoking contributes to that pollution.
This problem threatens the tourism industry and, more importantly, people’s health. And of course, smoking itself can cause a number of illnesses and non-smokers are affected by second-hand smoking.
Perhaps the ban could encourage some people to give up. The sooner they stop smoking, the sooner their lung function will improve.
I appreciate that the high cigarette tax earns revenue for the government.
However, the health of our citizens is more important.
If we get more tourists because they feel the air is cleaner and they will not have to endure second-hand smoke, this will be good for the economy.
The government could do more in the area of education, so that people are made fully aware of the dangers of smoking.
Hui Hong-kiu, Tsuen Wan