Tight Laws Urged As Touts Corner Dayo Wong Tickets

A lawmaker on Wednesday urged the government to amend laws against touting after some reports said that tickets for a popular stand-up comedian's show were being sold at several times of their actual price.

Tickets for Dayo Wong's farewell shows were quickly sold out and many internet users posted their disappointment of not being able to get one.

But now reports say tickets are being sold on the black market by touts, with HK$880 tickets offered at more than HK$15,000. Wong himself uploaded a message on his Facebook page against such sales.

Lawmaker Ma Fung-kwok, who represents the performing arts sector, said the government should tighten the law against scalping, as it currently covers only private venues that hold entertainment licences.

Government facilities are not covered under the relevant ordinance. Wong's shows are to be held at the government-run Hong Kong Coliseum.

Ma said the current fine of HK$2,000 for scalping should be increased.

He also said the government should look at ways to introduce a system whereby the name of the purchaser is linked to the ticket. Ma conceded that a study is needed before creating a real name registration system, but said some event organisers he talked to would not object to such a move.

But Ma said event organisers are worried about the cost, as well as delays at entrance gates for large scale events.