The effective exchange rate index for the Hong Kong dollar on Friday, August 3, 2018 is 104.6 (up 0.6 against yesterday's index).
Effective Exchange Rate Index
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Recruitment arrangement for Government Counsel applicants announced
The Department of Justice today (August 3) reminded potential applicants for the post of Government Counsel (GC) that they are required to obtain a certain level of results in the Common Recruitment Examination (CRE) in order to be qualified for the post.
The GC recruitment exercise will be conducted in around late August/early September this year. Similar to last year's recruitment exercise, applicants will be required to obtain a Level 2 result in the Use of English (UE) paper and a Level 1 result in the Use of Chinese (UC) paper of the CRE.
In this connection, Level 5 or above in English Language in the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (HKDSEE) or Grade C or above in Use of English in the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE) or Grade C or above in English Language in the General Certificate of Education (Advanced Level) are accepted as equivalent to Level 2 in the UE paper of the CRE. Furthermore, Level 4 in Chinese Language in the HKDSEE or Grade D in Chinese Language and Culture or Chinese Language and Literature in the HKALE are accepted as equivalent to Level 1 in the UC paper of the CRE. Other equivalent qualifications can also be found at www.csb.gov.hk/english/recruit/cre/949.html.
Under exceptional circumstances a limited number of applicants who do not meet the requisite Chinese language requirement may be appointed subject to the operational needs of the department.
Since 2008, applicants for the GC post should also take a Basic Law Test (BLT). While not mandatory, the results of the BLT will be taken into account in considering the suitability of a candidate for appointment.
The next CRE and BLT will be held on October 6 and 13, in Hong Kong. Prospective GC applicants without the requisite results in the CRE or equivalent and/or those who wish to take the BLT are invited to apply between August 3 and 16, for sitting the relevant examination and/or test.
Further information on the CRE and BLT is available on the homepage of the Civil Service Bureau (under the "Recruitment" section) at www.csb.gov.hk.
The GC recruitment exercise will be conducted in around late August/early September this year. Similar to last year's recruitment exercise, applicants will be required to obtain a Level 2 result in the Use of English (UE) paper and a Level 1 result in the Use of Chinese (UC) paper of the CRE.
In this connection, Level 5 or above in English Language in the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (HKDSEE) or Grade C or above in Use of English in the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE) or Grade C or above in English Language in the General Certificate of Education (Advanced Level) are accepted as equivalent to Level 2 in the UE paper of the CRE. Furthermore, Level 4 in Chinese Language in the HKDSEE or Grade D in Chinese Language and Culture or Chinese Language and Literature in the HKALE are accepted as equivalent to Level 1 in the UC paper of the CRE. Other equivalent qualifications can also be found at www.csb.gov.hk/english/recruit/cre/949.html.
Under exceptional circumstances a limited number of applicants who do not meet the requisite Chinese language requirement may be appointed subject to the operational needs of the department.
Since 2008, applicants for the GC post should also take a Basic Law Test (BLT). While not mandatory, the results of the BLT will be taken into account in considering the suitability of a candidate for appointment.
The next CRE and BLT will be held on October 6 and 13, in Hong Kong. Prospective GC applicants without the requisite results in the CRE or equivalent and/or those who wish to take the BLT are invited to apply between August 3 and 16, for sitting the relevant examination and/or test.
Further information on the CRE and BLT is available on the homepage of the Civil Service Bureau (under the "Recruitment" section) at www.csb.gov.hk.
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Film Archive exhibition pays tribute to master performing artist Leung Sing-por (with photo)
To commemorate the comedy legend Leung Sing-por on the 110th anniversary of his birth, the Hong Kong Film Archive (HKFA) of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, in association with UA CineHub, is holding the exhibition "Leung Sing-porã»The Silhouette on Stage and Silver Screen" from today (August 3) to October 29 at the 1/F Foyer of the HKFA. The exhibition revisits Leung's silver screen career and his signature acting style, which integrated the techniques of Cantonese opera, as a tribute to the master performing artist.
Affectionately known as Uncle Por (1908-1981), Leung was born Leung Si-hoi in a renowned Cantonese opera family in Singapore. In 1939, Ma Si-tsang invited Leung to come to Hong Kong for career development. During the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong, Leung and his family were forced to move to other places including Guangzhou. Leung returned to Hong Kong after the war and, becoming chubby, he made a transition in his operatic role from wenwusheng (civil and military male role) to chousheng (comic male role). It was through the latter that Leung became known as the "King of Chousheng" for his virtuoso status.
Leung was acclaimed for his ability to move deftly between stage and screen, fusing the two art forms into a performance style uniquely his own. In 1941, Leung made his on-screen debut in "Chaos in the Universe", and he starred in over 400 movies afterwards, essaying many memorable characters like Leung Sing-sung who poses as the manager of a tycoon's company with a smoking cigar, the Dunce, Silly Wong and Obese Cantonese. Leung was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 1977 Honours List for his artistic contributions, making him the first Hong Kong artist to receive the honour.
In addition, the exhibition will also be held from August 18 to October 31 at the cinema of UA iSquare.
Admission to the exhibition is free. For details, please call 2739 2139 or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/HKFA/en_US/web/hkfa/programmesandexhibitions/highlights/highlights52.html.![Photo]()
Affectionately known as Uncle Por (1908-1981), Leung was born Leung Si-hoi in a renowned Cantonese opera family in Singapore. In 1939, Ma Si-tsang invited Leung to come to Hong Kong for career development. During the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong, Leung and his family were forced to move to other places including Guangzhou. Leung returned to Hong Kong after the war and, becoming chubby, he made a transition in his operatic role from wenwusheng (civil and military male role) to chousheng (comic male role). It was through the latter that Leung became known as the "King of Chousheng" for his virtuoso status.
Leung was acclaimed for his ability to move deftly between stage and screen, fusing the two art forms into a performance style uniquely his own. In 1941, Leung made his on-screen debut in "Chaos in the Universe", and he starred in over 400 movies afterwards, essaying many memorable characters like Leung Sing-sung who poses as the manager of a tycoon's company with a smoking cigar, the Dunce, Silly Wong and Obese Cantonese. Leung was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 1977 Honours List for his artistic contributions, making him the first Hong Kong artist to receive the honour.
In addition, the exhibition will also be held from August 18 to October 31 at the cinema of UA iSquare.
Admission to the exhibition is free. For details, please call 2739 2139 or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/HKFA/en_US/web/hkfa/programmesandexhibitions/highlights/highlights52.html.
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Red tide sighted
A red tide has been sighted over the past week, an inter-departmental red tide working group reported today (August 3).
The red tide was spotted by staff of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) on August 1 in Tolo Harbour including the Yim Tin Tsai fish culture zone.
The red tide still persists. No associated death of fish has been reported.
A spokesman for the working group said, "The red tide was formed by Scrippsiella trochoidea, which is commonly found in Hong Kong waters and non-toxic."
The AFCD urged mariculturists at Yim Tin Tsai, Yim Tin Tsai (East), Yung Shue Au and Lo Fu Wat fish culture zones to monitor the situation closely and increase aeration where necessary.
Red tide is a natural phenomenon. The AFCD's proactive phytoplankton monitoring programme will continue to monitor red tide occurrences to minimise the impact on the mariculture industry and the public.
The red tide was spotted by staff of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) on August 1 in Tolo Harbour including the Yim Tin Tsai fish culture zone.
The red tide still persists. No associated death of fish has been reported.
A spokesman for the working group said, "The red tide was formed by Scrippsiella trochoidea, which is commonly found in Hong Kong waters and non-toxic."
The AFCD urged mariculturists at Yim Tin Tsai, Yim Tin Tsai (East), Yung Shue Au and Lo Fu Wat fish culture zones to monitor the situation closely and increase aeration where necessary.
Red tide is a natural phenomenon. The AFCD's proactive phytoplankton monitoring programme will continue to monitor red tide occurrences to minimise the impact on the mariculture industry and the public.
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Qualified person heavily fined for contravening mandatory window inspection law
A qualified person (QP) who contravened the related law when performing mandatory window inspections was fined a total of $75,000 at Eastern Magistrates' Courts this Wednesday (August 1). The convicted QP consisted of a registered minor works contractor and its director.
In July 2016, the Buildings Department (BD) issued notices under section 30C(4) of the Buildings Ordinance (BO) to the owners of a private estate in Po Man Street, Shau Kei Wan, requiring them to appoint a QP to carry out window inspections of their premises and supervise the required repair. From August 2016 to March 2017, a QP submitted a total of 97 certificates involving different premises to the BD, certifying that the window inspections of those premises had been completed.
Afterwards, in response to reports of improper repair at the premises of the estate, BD staff conducted an investigation which revealed that inspection of all of the 97 cases was not carried out personally by the QP, contravening the requirement under section 30E(4) of the BO.
The QP and its director were subsequently prosecuted for the offences under section 40(2A)(c) and 40(6) of the BO respectively for knowingly misrepresenting a material fact in the certificates submitted to the BD. They pleaded guilty to the charge in the plea hearing at Eastern Magistrates' Courts on July 5 this year and were totally fined $75,000 on August 1, after the Court has considered their mitigation submission.
"Misrepresentation to the BD is a serious offence. The BD will conduct audit checks on certificates of window inspections received. Upon receipt of reports or arising from audit checks, the BD will conduct an investigation and take appropriate action against irregularities committed by the relevant persons, including instigating prosecution and/or disciplinary action," a spokesman for the BD said today (August 3).
Regarding the case in question, the BD is considering taking disciplinary action against the convicted QP involved.
Pursuant to section 40(2A)(c) of the BO, a QP who knowingly misrepresents a material fact in any plan, certificate, form, report, notice or other documents given to the BD for prescribed window inspection is punishable on conviction with a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for 18 months.
Moreover, pursuant to section 40(6) of the BO, where an offence committed by a body corporate is proved to have been committed with the consent or connivance of any director, manager, or other officer concerned in the management of the body corporate, or any person purporting to act in any such capacity, he/she, as well as the body corporate, is guilty of the offence.
In July 2016, the Buildings Department (BD) issued notices under section 30C(4) of the Buildings Ordinance (BO) to the owners of a private estate in Po Man Street, Shau Kei Wan, requiring them to appoint a QP to carry out window inspections of their premises and supervise the required repair. From August 2016 to March 2017, a QP submitted a total of 97 certificates involving different premises to the BD, certifying that the window inspections of those premises had been completed.
Afterwards, in response to reports of improper repair at the premises of the estate, BD staff conducted an investigation which revealed that inspection of all of the 97 cases was not carried out personally by the QP, contravening the requirement under section 30E(4) of the BO.
The QP and its director were subsequently prosecuted for the offences under section 40(2A)(c) and 40(6) of the BO respectively for knowingly misrepresenting a material fact in the certificates submitted to the BD. They pleaded guilty to the charge in the plea hearing at Eastern Magistrates' Courts on July 5 this year and were totally fined $75,000 on August 1, after the Court has considered their mitigation submission.
"Misrepresentation to the BD is a serious offence. The BD will conduct audit checks on certificates of window inspections received. Upon receipt of reports or arising from audit checks, the BD will conduct an investigation and take appropriate action against irregularities committed by the relevant persons, including instigating prosecution and/or disciplinary action," a spokesman for the BD said today (August 3).
Regarding the case in question, the BD is considering taking disciplinary action against the convicted QP involved.
Pursuant to section 40(2A)(c) of the BO, a QP who knowingly misrepresents a material fact in any plan, certificate, form, report, notice or other documents given to the BD for prescribed window inspection is punishable on conviction with a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for 18 months.
Moreover, pursuant to section 40(6) of the BO, where an offence committed by a body corporate is proved to have been committed with the consent or connivance of any director, manager, or other officer concerned in the management of the body corporate, or any person purporting to act in any such capacity, he/she, as well as the body corporate, is guilty of the offence.
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Provisional statistics of restaurant receipts and purchases for second quarter of 2018
The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released the latest provisional figures on restaurant receipts and purchases today (August 3).
The value of total receipts of the restaurants sector in the second quarter of 2018, provisionally estimated at $28.8 billion, increased by 6.6% over a year earlier. Over the same period, the provisional estimate of the value of total purchases by restaurants increased by 5.8% to $9.3 billion.
After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate of the volume of total restaurant receipts increased by 3.6% in the second quarter of 2018 compared with a year earlier.
Analysed by type of restaurant and comparing the second quarter of 2018 with the second quarter of 2017, total receipts of Chinese restaurants increased by 4.3% in value and 1.7% in volume. Total receipts of non-Chinese restaurants increased by 9.4% in value and 6.6% in volume. Total receipts of fast food shops increased by 5.7% in value and 1.3% in volume. Total receipts of bars increased by 11.0% in value and 12.0% in volume. As for miscellaneous eating and drinking places, total receipts increased by 11.5% in value and 7.9% in volume.
Based on the seasonally adjusted series, the provisional estimate of total restaurant receipts decreased by 1.7% in value and 2.4% in volume in the second quarter of 2018 compared with the preceding quarter.
Comparing the first half of 2018 with the same period in 2017, total restaurant receipts increased by 8.3% in value and 5.3% in volume.
To facilitate further understanding of the short-term business performance of the restaurants sector, statistics in respect of the restaurant receipts and purchases in individual months of the reference quarter are also compiled.
Analysed by month, it was provisionally estimated that the value of total receipts of the restaurants sector increased by 6.2%, 6.5% and 7.1% respectively in April, May and June 2018, compared with the corresponding months a year earlier.
After discounting the effect of price changes, it was provisionally estimated that total restaurant receipts increased by 3.2%, 3.5% and 4.1% in volume respectively in April, May and June 2018, compared with the corresponding months a year earlier.
Further information
Table 1 presents the revised figures of restaurant receipts by type of restaurant and total purchases by the restaurants sector for the first quarter of 2018 as well as the provisional figures for the second quarter of 2018.
Table 2 and Table 3 present the revised value and volume indices respectively of restaurant receipts by type of restaurant for the first quarter of 2018 and the provisional indices for the second quarter of 2018.
Table 4 presents the year-on-year rate of change in total restaurant receipts in value and volume terms based on the original quarterly series, as well as the quarter-to-quarter rate of change based on the seasonally adjusted series.
The revised figures on restaurant receipts and purchases for the second quarter of 2018 (with breakdown by month) will be released through the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/hkstat/sub/bbs.jsp) and relevant publications of the Department from September 20, 2018.
The classification of restaurants follows the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification (HSIC) Version 2.0, which is used in various economic surveys for classifying economic units into different industry classes.
More detailed statistics are given in the "Report on Quarterly Survey of Restaurant Receipts and Purchases". Users can download this publication free of charge at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/hkstat/sub/sp320.jsp?productCode=B1080002).
Users who have enquiries about the survey results may contact the Distribution Services Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7401; email: qsr@censtatd.gov.hk).
The value of total receipts of the restaurants sector in the second quarter of 2018, provisionally estimated at $28.8 billion, increased by 6.6% over a year earlier. Over the same period, the provisional estimate of the value of total purchases by restaurants increased by 5.8% to $9.3 billion.
After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate of the volume of total restaurant receipts increased by 3.6% in the second quarter of 2018 compared with a year earlier.
Analysed by type of restaurant and comparing the second quarter of 2018 with the second quarter of 2017, total receipts of Chinese restaurants increased by 4.3% in value and 1.7% in volume. Total receipts of non-Chinese restaurants increased by 9.4% in value and 6.6% in volume. Total receipts of fast food shops increased by 5.7% in value and 1.3% in volume. Total receipts of bars increased by 11.0% in value and 12.0% in volume. As for miscellaneous eating and drinking places, total receipts increased by 11.5% in value and 7.9% in volume.
Based on the seasonally adjusted series, the provisional estimate of total restaurant receipts decreased by 1.7% in value and 2.4% in volume in the second quarter of 2018 compared with the preceding quarter.
Comparing the first half of 2018 with the same period in 2017, total restaurant receipts increased by 8.3% in value and 5.3% in volume.
To facilitate further understanding of the short-term business performance of the restaurants sector, statistics in respect of the restaurant receipts and purchases in individual months of the reference quarter are also compiled.
Analysed by month, it was provisionally estimated that the value of total receipts of the restaurants sector increased by 6.2%, 6.5% and 7.1% respectively in April, May and June 2018, compared with the corresponding months a year earlier.
After discounting the effect of price changes, it was provisionally estimated that total restaurant receipts increased by 3.2%, 3.5% and 4.1% in volume respectively in April, May and June 2018, compared with the corresponding months a year earlier.
Further information
Table 1 presents the revised figures of restaurant receipts by type of restaurant and total purchases by the restaurants sector for the first quarter of 2018 as well as the provisional figures for the second quarter of 2018.
Table 2 and Table 3 present the revised value and volume indices respectively of restaurant receipts by type of restaurant for the first quarter of 2018 and the provisional indices for the second quarter of 2018.
Table 4 presents the year-on-year rate of change in total restaurant receipts in value and volume terms based on the original quarterly series, as well as the quarter-to-quarter rate of change based on the seasonally adjusted series.
The revised figures on restaurant receipts and purchases for the second quarter of 2018 (with breakdown by month) will be released through the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/hkstat/sub/bbs.jsp) and relevant publications of the Department from September 20, 2018.
The classification of restaurants follows the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification (HSIC) Version 2.0, which is used in various economic surveys for classifying economic units into different industry classes.
More detailed statistics are given in the "Report on Quarterly Survey of Restaurant Receipts and Purchases". Users can download this publication free of charge at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/hkstat/sub/sp320.jsp?productCode=B1080002).
Users who have enquiries about the survey results may contact the Distribution Services Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7401; email: qsr@censtatd.gov.hk).
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Interest on Tax Reserve Certificates
Government Gazette published today (August 3) contains a Legal Notice to the effect that the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury has authorised a change in the rate of interest payable on Tax Reserve Certificates. From August 6, 2018, the new annual rate of interest will be 0.0767% against the current rate of 0.0433%; that is, the new rate will be $0.0064 per month per $100.
Tax Reserve Certificates bear simple interest and interest is calculated monthly (including part of a month) from the date of purchase to the date of payment of tax.
Interest is only credited when certificates are used to pay tax and no interest is due where the principal value of a certificate is repaid to its holder.
The rate of interest payable on Tax Reserve Certificates is periodically revised in line with the market trend. Currently, it is reviewed every month based on the average prevailing interest rate for the six-month time deposit below $100,000 offered by the three note-issuing banks.
The new rate will apply to all certificates purchased on or after August 6, 2018. Certificates purchased before August 6, 2018, will continue to earn interest at the rates prevailing on their respective purchase dates. More interest rate information can be found in the Inland Revenue Department website (www.ird.gov.hk). The public can also obtain a copy of Tax Reserve Certificate Interest Rate Table from our 24-hour information hotline at 1878033. Below is a summary of the interest rates for past periods:
This is always subject to the general rule that interest ceases to accrue after 36 complete months.
Tax Reserve Certificates bear simple interest and interest is calculated monthly (including part of a month) from the date of purchase to the date of payment of tax.
Interest is only credited when certificates are used to pay tax and no interest is due where the principal value of a certificate is repaid to its holder.
The rate of interest payable on Tax Reserve Certificates is periodically revised in line with the market trend. Currently, it is reviewed every month based on the average prevailing interest rate for the six-month time deposit below $100,000 offered by the three note-issuing banks.
The new rate will apply to all certificates purchased on or after August 6, 2018. Certificates purchased before August 6, 2018, will continue to earn interest at the rates prevailing on their respective purchase dates. More interest rate information can be found in the Inland Revenue Department website (www.ird.gov.hk). The public can also obtain a copy of Tax Reserve Certificate Interest Rate Table from our 24-hour information hotline at 1878033. Below is a summary of the interest rates for past periods:
| For certificates purchased on or after January 5, 2009 and before February 2, 2009; |
0.3667% per annum |
| For certificates purchased on or after February 2, 2009 and before June 1, 2009; |
0.2667% per annum |
| For certificates purchased on or after June 1, 2009 and before August 3, 2009; |
0.1167% per annum |
| For certificates purchased on or after August 3, 2009 and before December 7, 2009; |
0.0833% per annum |
| For certificates purchased on or after December 7, 2009 and before January 4, 2010; |
0.0667% per annum |
| For certificates purchased on or after January 4, 2010 and before August 6, 2018; and |
0.0433% per annum |
| For certificates purchased on or after August 6, 2018, until further notice. |
0.0767% per annum |
This is always subject to the general rule that interest ceases to accrue after 36 complete months.
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Meetings of Legislative Council Committees
The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:
No open or closed meetings of the Legislative Council (LegCo) Committees will be held in the LegCo Complex during the week from August 6 to 10.
No open or closed meetings of the Legislative Council (LegCo) Committees will be held in the LegCo Complex during the week from August 6 to 10.
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HAD to open temporary night heat shelters
The Home Affairs Department will open 18 temporary night heat shelters tonight (August 3) for people in need of the service.
The shelters will be open from 10.30pm until 8am tomorrow.
For further information, please call the department's enquiries hotline before midnight on 2835 1473.
The 18 night heat shelters are located at:
Hong Kong Districts:
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Central and Western -
Sai Ying Pun Community Complex Community Hall
3/F, Sai Ying Pun Community Complex,
2 High Street, Sai Ying Pun
Eastern/Wan Chai -
Causeway Bay Community Centre
Waiting Lobby, 3/F, 7 Fook Yum Road, Causeway Bay
Southern -
Lei Tung Community Hall
Lei Tung Estate, Ap Lei Chau
Kowloon Districts:
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Kowloon City -
Hung Hom Community Hall
Multi-purpose Room, 1/F, Kowloon City Government Offices,
42 Bailey Street, Hung Hom
Kwun Tong -
Lam Tin (West) Estate Community Centre
71 Kai Tin Road, Lam Tin
Sham Shui Po -
Shek Kip Mei Community Hall
G/F, Block 42, Shek Kip Mei Estate,
Nam Cheong Street, Sham Shui Po
Wong Tai Sin -
Tsz Wan Shan (South) Estate Community Centre
Hall, G/F, 45 Wan Wah Street, Tsz Wan Shan
Yau Tsim Mong -
Henry G Leong Yaumatei Community Centre
60 Public Square Street, Yau Ma Tei
New Territories Districts:
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Islands -
Tung Chung Community Hall
G/F, Tung Chung Municipal Services Building,
39 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung
Kwai Tsing -
Kwai Shing Community Hall
Podium, Block 6, Kwai Shing West Estate, Kwai Chung
North -
Cheung Wah Community Hall
Cheung Wah Estate, Fanling
Sai Kung -
Hang Hau Community Hall
G/F, Sai Kung Tseung Kwan O Government Complex,
38 Pui Shing Road, Hang Hau, Tseung Kwan O
Sha Tin -
Lung Hang Estate Community Centre
Lung Hang Estate, Sha Tin
Tai Po -
Tai Po Community Centre
2 Heung Sze Wui Street, Tai Po
Tsuen Wan -
Lei Muk Shue Community Hall
G/F, Hong Shue House, Lei Muk Shue Estate, Tsuen Wan
Tuen Mun -
Butterfly Bay Community Centre
Butterfly Estate (near Tip Sum House), Tuen Mun
Yuen Long -
Long Ping Community Hall
Long Ping Estate, Yuen Long
Yuen Long -
Tin Yiu Community Centre
Tin Yiu Estate, Tin Shui Wai
The temporary night heat shelters will resume their functions as either community centres or community halls in the daytime for hire by the local community and cannot continue to be open as heat shelters. People may choose to take refuge from the heat during the daytime in the common areas in any of the 21 designated community centres or community halls. Their opening hours are from 9am to 10pm. For addresses of the community centres or community halls, please browse the following webpage: www.had.gov.hk/file_manager/en/documents/public_services/emergency_services/List_CH_CC_Day_E.pdf.
The shelters will be open from 10.30pm until 8am tomorrow.
For further information, please call the department's enquiries hotline before midnight on 2835 1473.
The 18 night heat shelters are located at:
Hong Kong Districts:
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Central and Western -
Sai Ying Pun Community Complex Community Hall
3/F, Sai Ying Pun Community Complex,
2 High Street, Sai Ying Pun
Eastern/Wan Chai -
Causeway Bay Community Centre
Waiting Lobby, 3/F, 7 Fook Yum Road, Causeway Bay
Southern -
Lei Tung Community Hall
Lei Tung Estate, Ap Lei Chau
Kowloon Districts:
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Kowloon City -
Hung Hom Community Hall
Multi-purpose Room, 1/F, Kowloon City Government Offices,
42 Bailey Street, Hung Hom
Kwun Tong -
Lam Tin (West) Estate Community Centre
71 Kai Tin Road, Lam Tin
Sham Shui Po -
Shek Kip Mei Community Hall
G/F, Block 42, Shek Kip Mei Estate,
Nam Cheong Street, Sham Shui Po
Wong Tai Sin -
Tsz Wan Shan (South) Estate Community Centre
Hall, G/F, 45 Wan Wah Street, Tsz Wan Shan
Yau Tsim Mong -
Henry G Leong Yaumatei Community Centre
60 Public Square Street, Yau Ma Tei
New Territories Districts:
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Islands -
Tung Chung Community Hall
G/F, Tung Chung Municipal Services Building,
39 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung
Kwai Tsing -
Kwai Shing Community Hall
Podium, Block 6, Kwai Shing West Estate, Kwai Chung
North -
Cheung Wah Community Hall
Cheung Wah Estate, Fanling
Sai Kung -
Hang Hau Community Hall
G/F, Sai Kung Tseung Kwan O Government Complex,
38 Pui Shing Road, Hang Hau, Tseung Kwan O
Sha Tin -
Lung Hang Estate Community Centre
Lung Hang Estate, Sha Tin
Tai Po -
Tai Po Community Centre
2 Heung Sze Wui Street, Tai Po
Tsuen Wan -
Lei Muk Shue Community Hall
G/F, Hong Shue House, Lei Muk Shue Estate, Tsuen Wan
Tuen Mun -
Butterfly Bay Community Centre
Butterfly Estate (near Tip Sum House), Tuen Mun
Yuen Long -
Long Ping Community Hall
Long Ping Estate, Yuen Long
Yuen Long -
Tin Yiu Community Centre
Tin Yiu Estate, Tin Shui Wai
The temporary night heat shelters will resume their functions as either community centres or community halls in the daytime for hire by the local community and cannot continue to be open as heat shelters. People may choose to take refuge from the heat during the daytime in the common areas in any of the 21 designated community centres or community halls. Their opening hours are from 9am to 10pm. For addresses of the community centres or community halls, please browse the following webpage: www.had.gov.hk/file_manager/en/documents/public_services/emergency_services/List_CH_CC_Day_E.pdf.
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Hong Kong Customs mounts operation to combat illicit cigarettes (with photos)
Hong Kong Customs mounted a territory-wide operation codenamed "Hammer" to strike storage and distribution activities of illicit cigarettes from July 27 to today (August 3). A total of about 1.1 million suspected illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $3 million and a duty potential of about $2.1 million were seized.
Customs officers detected four cases of suspected storage and distribution of illicit cigarettes in Kam Tin, Wong Tai Sin, Sheung Shui and Tai Po with seizures of about 100 000 suspected illicit cigarettes between July 27 and yesterday (August 2). Three men and two women, aged between 58 and 88, were arrested.
Customs officers today also seized about 1 million suspected illicit cigarettes in an iron hut in Yuen Long. A 27-year-old man was arrested.
Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).![Photo]()
![Photo]()
Customs officers detected four cases of suspected storage and distribution of illicit cigarettes in Kam Tin, Wong Tai Sin, Sheung Shui and Tai Po with seizures of about 100 000 suspected illicit cigarettes between July 27 and yesterday (August 2). Three men and two women, aged between 58 and 88, were arrested.
Customs officers today also seized about 1 million suspected illicit cigarettes in an iron hut in Yuen Long. A 27-year-old man was arrested.
Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
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Regional flag day today
Three charities have been issued Public Subscription Permits to hold flag sales from 7am to 12.30pm today (August 4). They are, on Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong Blind Union; in Kowloon, the Society for Community Organization Limited; and in the New Territories, CTU Education Foundation Limited, a spokesman for the Social Welfare Department (SWD) said.
Arrangements have been made with the charities to help people distinguish between the three flag-selling activities.
Information on the three flag-selling organisations on August 4 is as follows:
For enquiries, please call the SWD's hotline at 2343 2255, or the Charitable Fund-raising Control Team at 2832 4311 during office hours. Information on the flag days of the month is available at the SWD's website (www.swd.gov.hk/en/index/site_whatsnew). Permits for flag days containing contact information of the flag-selling organisations and information on the approved flag-selling activities have also been uploaded to the SWD's website (www.swd.gov.hk/en/index/site_pubsvc/page_controlofc/sub_recentlyap). For enquiries about the detailed flag-selling arrangements, please contact the individual flag-selling organisations.
Details of the charitable fund-raising activities covered by the Public Subscription Permit issued by the SWD have also been uploaded to the GovHK website (www.gov.hk/fundraising).
In the case of suspected fraudulent flag day activities, people should not make any donation and should immediately report the matter to the Police, the spokesman added.
Arrangements have been made with the charities to help people distinguish between the three flag-selling activities.
Information on the three flag-selling organisations on August 4 is as follows:
| Region | Name of organisation | Colour of collection bag | Colour of flag |
| Hong Kong Island | Hong Kong Blind Union | Yellow | Green |
| Kowloon | The Society for Community Organization Limited | Purple | Brown |
| New Territories | CTU Education Foundation Limited | Green | Light Blue |
For enquiries, please call the SWD's hotline at 2343 2255, or the Charitable Fund-raising Control Team at 2832 4311 during office hours. Information on the flag days of the month is available at the SWD's website (www.swd.gov.hk/en/index/site_whatsnew). Permits for flag days containing contact information of the flag-selling organisations and information on the approved flag-selling activities have also been uploaded to the SWD's website (www.swd.gov.hk/en/index/site_pubsvc/page_controlofc/sub_recentlyap). For enquiries about the detailed flag-selling arrangements, please contact the individual flag-selling organisations.
Details of the charitable fund-raising activities covered by the Public Subscription Permit issued by the SWD have also been uploaded to the GovHK website (www.gov.hk/fundraising).
In the case of suspected fraudulent flag day activities, people should not make any donation and should immediately report the matter to the Police, the spokesman added.
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Very Hot Weather Warning issued
Attention TV/radio announcers:
Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:
The Hong Kong Observatory has issued the Very Hot Weather Warning.
To prevent heat stroke, avoid prolonged activities outdoors.
If engaged in outdoor work or activities, wear a wide-brimmed hat and light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes. Stay in shaded areas as much as possible.
Drink plenty of water, and avoid beverages containing caffeine or alcohol.
If you feel sick, consult a doctor right away.
Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:
The Hong Kong Observatory has issued the Very Hot Weather Warning.
To prevent heat stroke, avoid prolonged activities outdoors.
If engaged in outdoor work or activities, wear a wide-brimmed hat and light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes. Stay in shaded areas as much as possible.
Drink plenty of water, and avoid beverages containing caffeine or alcohol.
If you feel sick, consult a doctor right away.
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Assess the risk of heat stroke to employees
Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:
Please broadcast the following special announcement immediately, and repeat it at frequent intervals when the Very Hot Weather Warning is in force:
The Labour Department reminds employers that as the Very Hot Weather Warning is in force, they should assess the risk of heat stroke to their employees and adopt effective preventive measures such as providing cool drinking water, setting up temporary sunshade and providing mechanical aids to reduce physical exertion of employees. Employees should drink water regularly and be mindful of their physical condition. If early heat stroke symptoms such as headache and thirst appear, they should inform their supervisors and seek medical help immediately.
Please broadcast the following special announcement immediately, and repeat it at frequent intervals when the Very Hot Weather Warning is in force:
The Labour Department reminds employers that as the Very Hot Weather Warning is in force, they should assess the risk of heat stroke to their employees and adopt effective preventive measures such as providing cool drinking water, setting up temporary sunshade and providing mechanical aids to reduce physical exertion of employees. Employees should drink water regularly and be mindful of their physical condition. If early heat stroke symptoms such as headache and thirst appear, they should inform their supervisors and seek medical help immediately.
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CHP reminds public on precautions against heat stroke during very hot weather
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (August 4) reminded members of the public, particularly those undertaking outdoor activities, to take heed of necessary measures against heat stroke and sunburn in very hot weather.
"The public should carry and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration while engaging in outdoor activities," a spokesman for the CHP said.
"Those engaged in strenuous outdoor activities should avoid beverages containing caffeine, such as coffee and tea, as well as alcohol, as they speed up water loss through the urinary system," the spokesman explained.
"The obese, the sick, including those with heart disease or high blood pressure, the old and the young are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. They should pay special attention," the spokesman added.
The public should adopt the following precautions:
If working in a hot environment is inevitable, introduce shade in the workplace where practicable, and start work slowly and pick up the pace gradually. Get into a cool area for rest at regular intervals to allow the body to recuperate.
The public should also note the latest and the forecast Ultraviolet (UV) Index released by the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO). When the UV Index remains high (6 or above):
If symptoms develop, such as dizziness, headache, nausea, shortness of breath or confusion, rest and seek help immediately, and seek medical advice as soon as possible.
The public may get more information from the DH's Health Education Hotline (2833 0111), heat stroke page and UV radiation page; the HKO's Dial-a-Weather (1878 200), latest weather and forecast, UV Index and weather information for hiking and mountaineering; and press releases of the Labour Department on precautions against heat stroke for outdoor workers and their employers when the Very Hot Weather Warning is in force.
"The public should carry and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration while engaging in outdoor activities," a spokesman for the CHP said.
"Those engaged in strenuous outdoor activities should avoid beverages containing caffeine, such as coffee and tea, as well as alcohol, as they speed up water loss through the urinary system," the spokesman explained.
"The obese, the sick, including those with heart disease or high blood pressure, the old and the young are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. They should pay special attention," the spokesman added.
The public should adopt the following precautions:
- Wear loose and light-coloured clothing to reduce heat absorption and facilitate sweat evaporation and heat dissipation;
- Avoid vigorous exercise and prolonged activities like hiking or trekking as heat, sweating and exhaustion place additional demands on the physique;
- Perform outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon;
- For indoor activities, open all windows, use a fan or use air-conditioning to maintain good ventilation; and
- Reschedule work to cooler times of the day.
If working in a hot environment is inevitable, introduce shade in the workplace where practicable, and start work slowly and pick up the pace gradually. Get into a cool area for rest at regular intervals to allow the body to recuperate.
The public should also note the latest and the forecast Ultraviolet (UV) Index released by the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO). When the UV Index remains high (6 or above):
- Minimise direct exposure of the skin and the eyes to sunlight;
- Wear loose long-sleeved clothing made of close-woven fabrics;
- Wear a wide brim hat or use an umbrella;
- Seek a shaded area or put on UV-blocking sunglasses;
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen lotion with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or above. Apply liberally and reapply after swimming or sweating; and
- While using DEET-containing insect repellents for personal protection against mosquito-borne diseases, apply sunscreen first, then insect repellent.
If symptoms develop, such as dizziness, headache, nausea, shortness of breath or confusion, rest and seek help immediately, and seek medical advice as soon as possible.
The public may get more information from the DH's Health Education Hotline (2833 0111), heat stroke page and UV radiation page; the HKO's Dial-a-Weather (1878 200), latest weather and forecast, UV Index and weather information for hiking and mountaineering; and press releases of the Labour Department on precautions against heat stroke for outdoor workers and their employers when the Very Hot Weather Warning is in force.
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Flag-raising ceremony cancelled
Owing to the thunderstorm warning, the flag-raising ceremony to be conducted at Golden Bauhinia Square, Wan Chai at 8am today (August 4) will be cancelled.
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Red flag hoisted at Clear Water Bay First Beach
Attention TV/radio announcers:
Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:
Here is an item of interest to swimmers.
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (August 4) that due to inclement weather, red flag has been hoisted at Clear Water Bay First Beach in Sai Kung District. Beach-goers are advised not to swim at the beach.
Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:
Here is an item of interest to swimmers.
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (August 4) that due to inclement weather, red flag has been hoisted at Clear Water Bay First Beach in Sai Kung District. Beach-goers are advised not to swim at the beach.
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Red flags hoisted at Silverstrand Beach and Clear Water Bay Second Beach
Attention TV/radio announcers:
Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:
Here is an item of interest to swimmers.
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (August 4) that due to inclement weather, red flags have been hoisted at Silverstrand Beach and Clear Water Bay Second Beach in Sai Kung District. Beach-goers are advised not to swim at these beaches.
Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:
Here is an item of interest to swimmers.
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (August 4) that due to inclement weather, red flags have been hoisted at Silverstrand Beach and Clear Water Bay Second Beach in Sai Kung District. Beach-goers are advised not to swim at these beaches.
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Transcript of remarks by SEN
Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Wong Kam-sing, on the implementation of the Producer Responsibility Scheme on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment after attending radio programmes this morning (August 4):
Reporter: Mr Wong, some people say that the recycling service is too focus on a single recycler. So if you are trying to ask other private recyclers to join into the recycling service, how to do this? Almost all of the retailers are choosing the single service because of the delivery service. So how will you solve this to include some other recyclers into the industry?
Secretary for the Environment: I think you are talking about collectors, not really recyclers. According to the new requirements, all retailers have to register the proposed collectors (with the Environmental Protection Department). That means, they have to take the old appliances from consumers’ premises to a licensed recycler. The retailers actually have the flexibility to name more than one collector. I think that in the future, they will adjust their proposals according to the market situation.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Reporter: Mr Wong, some people say that the recycling service is too focus on a single recycler. So if you are trying to ask other private recyclers to join into the recycling service, how to do this? Almost all of the retailers are choosing the single service because of the delivery service. So how will you solve this to include some other recyclers into the industry?
Secretary for the Environment: I think you are talking about collectors, not really recyclers. According to the new requirements, all retailers have to register the proposed collectors (with the Environmental Protection Department). That means, they have to take the old appliances from consumers’ premises to a licensed recycler. The retailers actually have the flexibility to name more than one collector. I think that in the future, they will adjust their proposals according to the market situation.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
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Appeal for information on missing man in Tsuen Wan (with photo)
Police today (August 4) appealed to the public for information on a man who went missing in Tsuen Wan.
Leung Wa-kan, aged 55, went missing after he was last seen in a hostel on Tsuen King Circuit yesterday (August 3) morning. Staff of the hostel made a report to Police on the same day.
He is about 1.67 metres tall, 65 kilograms in weight and of thin build. He has a long face with yellow complexion and short black hair. He was last seen wearing a blue vest, black trousers and black slippers.
Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Person Unit, New Territories South on 3661 1174 or 5745 2558 or email to rmpu-nts-1@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.
![Photo]()
Leung Wa-kan, aged 55, went missing after he was last seen in a hostel on Tsuen King Circuit yesterday (August 3) morning. Staff of the hostel made a report to Police on the same day.
He is about 1.67 metres tall, 65 kilograms in weight and of thin build. He has a long face with yellow complexion and short black hair. He was last seen wearing a blue vest, black trousers and black slippers.
Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Person Unit, New Territories South on 3661 1174 or 5745 2558 or email to rmpu-nts-1@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.
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Cluster of Rhinovirus cases in Cheshire Home, Chung Hom Kok
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson of the Cheshire Home, Chung Hom Kok made the following announcement today (August 4):
Five patients (Three male and two female, aged 55 to 64) and four staff members of a long stay male ward and a long stay female ward had presented with upper respiratory tract infection symptoms since July 21. Appropriate viral tests have been arranged for the patients and three of the test results were positive to Rhinovirus. The concerned patients are being treated under isolation with stable condition. Three staff members have recovered and are back to work and one is still on sick leave.
Admission to the concerned wards has been suspended and restricted visiting has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the concerned wards are under close surveillance.
The cases have been reported to Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.
The spokesperson of the Cheshire Home, Chung Hom Kok made the following announcement today (August 4):
Five patients (Three male and two female, aged 55 to 64) and four staff members of a long stay male ward and a long stay female ward had presented with upper respiratory tract infection symptoms since July 21. Appropriate viral tests have been arranged for the patients and three of the test results were positive to Rhinovirus. The concerned patients are being treated under isolation with stable condition. Three staff members have recovered and are back to work and one is still on sick leave.
Admission to the concerned wards has been suspended and restricted visiting has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the concerned wards are under close surveillance.
The cases have been reported to Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.
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