Press Releases

Proposed study for "smoking room"

On the proposed study for a "smoking room" mooted by the Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food at the resumption debate of the second reading of the smoking (Public Health) (amendment) Bill 2005, a spokesman for the Health, Welfare and Food Bureau issued the following statement today (October 19):

"The consideration of the proposed 'smoking room' was meant to provide a venue to smokers for the sole purpose of smoking and no other activities. It had to be technically feasible to effectively bar emission from leaking from the room, thereby causing contamination of the air and the health of non-smokers jeopardised.

The primary consideration was for the protection of the interest of non-smokers. With the new Ordinance coming into effect, many of the smokers may have to resolve to pursue their habit in open space. Non-smoking road users may probably be left without a choice but to become a second-hand smoker. The setting up of a 'smoking room' could separate smokers from non-smokers.

We have not started the study. Neither is there any conclusive evidence on its feasibility, nor has there been any consideration given to details such as where these rooms should be installed.

In the event that this conception is found viable, the Administration would widely consult the public. It will put forward a relevant proposal to the Legislative Council and go through the usual legislative procedures before putting anything in place.

Previous discussions related to a 'smoking room' by the Bills Committee on the 2005 Smoking (Public Health) (Amendment) Bill were on a proposal of a different concept. It was a room with an independent ventilation system installed in the premises of the hospitality industry for its guests to enjoy the normal activities that the venue offers. At no stage have we taken this proposal on board, and we remain firmly against it."



Ends/Thursday, October 19, 2006
Issued at HKT 23:06

NNNN