Govt Not Ruling Out Further Distancing Measures

The Health Secretary, Sophia Chan, said on Sunday that the SAR government wouldn't rule out imposing further measures to prevent public gatherings – after complaints that certain establishments, such as karaokes or mahjong parlours, are not required to close as part of tougher social-distancing measures announced by the government.

Cinemas, video-game arcades, bathhouses and gyms are among the premises that have been shut since 6 pm on Saturday, to prevent people from gathering in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

But the measure doesn't cover businesses such as karaokes or mahjong parlours.

Some say those are also high-risk establishments that could spread the virus. But Professor Chan explained that karaokes, which hold a restaurant's licence, are regulated by a law covering eateries.

Speaking after attending a TV programme on Sunday, the secretary said karaokes still need to abide by the rule aimed to increase space between tables and limitcustomers, and that they cannot serve more than 4 people per table.

She insisted the policies are aimed at further promoting social distancing, not targeting particular trades or venues, and the government will review the latest situation on the pandemic and may roll out more measures if necessary.

She added that, so far, no parties have been fined since the regulations came into effect.