Fine those consumers who help the pirates
I completely agree with the proposed legislation to make it illegal to purchase pirated CDs and other pirated items such as software, videos and clothing.
The Government should take a more resolute and stronger stand towards piracy and act immediately on the measures, whether or not it has public support for its proposals. This may be an unpopular policy because the public is severely misinformed about the illegal aspects of such a trade.
I vehemently disagree with trade unionist Chan Kwok-keung's statement about the unfairness of imposing consumer liability. That is precisely what needs to be done to wipe out piracy.
The very reason that this is a thriving business for many 'bootleggers' is because of the consumers.
Let the consumer think twice before purchasing something that may cost him/her a heavy fine or arrest, then we will see these stalls close down one by one.
People who casually state they have seen a VCD of a film not yet released in the cinema, or who proudly boast of having a library of pirated VCDs, should be ashamed of themselves.
These people are not aware that they are doing something illegal or that they are contributing to an illicit trade that is costing honest consumers and companies millions of dollars each year; the very fact that you can purchase these items in a retail shop and receive a receipt is dangerously misleading.
Let the consumer be made responsible for irresponsible actions.
I strongly support consumer liability. The Government should not 'sit back' and make 'careful considerations'. Act now and stamp out piracy.
A fine of between $5,000 and $10,000 should be imposed on anyone who is caught purchasing pirated products. We could then see how this would affect sales.
This is one way the Government can bring some pride back into Hong Kong and be one of the first countries in Asia to take such a stand in combating piracy.
CECILIA YEUNG Discovery Bay
