Dec 18 2008 – SCMP
There has been a great deal of discussion about the issue of the smoking ban in Hong Kong. I think we have no option but to bring in the full smoking ban, not just because it is bad for your health, but because of the effect it has on the environment.
Just look at the survey which showed that the lung function of non-smoking workers in smoke-free restaurants was much more efficient than those in exempted bars (“Stick by full smoking ban, urge academics”, December 10).
It makes no sense that people continue to light up, knowing the effect on their lungs.
The full ban is opposed by nightclubs, bars and mahjong parlours which have enjoyed an exemption. They say the ban would be catastrophic, especially given the state of the economy.
However, given that their workers’ health is at risk, their objections are not reasonable.
These bar owners have a responsibility to help the environment and ensure their staff are not put at risk.
Jason Chu Hung-shing, Lai Chi Kok