Sing Tao News Corporation defends report on tobacco control's impact on tourism

Sing Tao News Corporation has publicly defended its reporting against government criticisms, which label the content as inaccurate and misleading.

This defense comes in response to a government rebuttal concerning a Sing Tao Daily article published on April 3, which discussed the potential negative effects of tobacco control policies on tourism in Hong Kong.

The article in question included perspectives from Legislative Council members, the bar industry, and anti-smoking groups, suggesting that strict smoking regulations could adversely affect bar businesses and deter tourists. The government's Health Bureau (HHB) expressed regret over what it described as the report's inaccuracies and misleading assertions.

In an editorial, Sing Tao Daily argued against sacrificing Hong Kong's already sluggish economy and damaging the tourist experience to further reduce the already low smoking rates. The publication contends that its reports and commentaries are intended to accurately reflect legislative and industry concerns, stimulating public discourse on these issues.

Sing Tao News Corporation stands by its belief that public policies should be subject to extensive discussion, allowing for a variety of opinions that contribute to the development of well-rounded policies and uphold the principle of free speech.

Lawmaker Peter Shiu Ka-fai of the Liberal Party emphasized the importance of free speech in Hong Kong, stating that as a proponent of economic development, it is his responsibility to present all sides of any argument to the public. He highlighted the need for government policies to consider diverse societal voices.

Fellow lawmaker Rebecca Chan Hoi-yan echoed this sentiment, stressing the media’s role in presenting different viewpoints on social issues. She criticized the government's harsh response and noted that the full details of the proposed tobacco control measures have not yet been officially released, with only partial information being disclosed by unnamed sources.

Executive Councillor Ronny Tong Ka-wah advised that any policy affecting potential travelers or business activities in Hong Kong should be handled with care by the relevant policy bureaus.