Exco Expected To Hold Special Meeting On Outbreak

Sources say the Executive Council will hold a special meeting on Friday to discuss the coronavirus outbreak, amid growing calls to usher in tougher social-distancing measures.

An expert in respiratory medicine, Professor David Hui of Chinese University, says restrictions could be placed on restaurants regarding their opening hours, as well as the number of customers they serve. He also raised doubts about the effectiveness of a proposed ban on the sale of alcohol in bars to prevent people from gathering.

Meanwhile, pro-government lawmaker Priscilla Leung has called for a ban on public gatherings for two or three weeks.

The Business and Professionals Alliance legislator also doesn't believe the administration's plan to ban the sale of alcohol would sufficiently prevent people from spending time in close contact with one another.