Mind your language
Legislator Raymond Wong Yuk-man was recently warned about his use of bad language after clashing with another legislator in the Legislative Council.
In my opinion, it should not be necessary to use foul language in our daily lives and it should definitely not have a place in formal situations. A Legco meeting is supposed to be orderly and the job of a legislator is to pass on citizens' opinions to the government.
I think legislators should use their time making Hong Kong a better place to live, not abusing each other with foul words and setting a bad example for young people. When our politicians swear in public, they are effectively telling teenagers it is OK to do so.
Of course, we all sometimes say things we should not in the heat of the moment. But people who have senior positions have a responsibility to watch their language and set an example. Even if you have strong feelings about something, there is a still a proper way to express yourself.
Rosanna Chen Man-sze, True Light Girls' College
From the Editor
Thanks for your letter, Rosanna. You're quite right when you say there is no place for foul language in public, or indeed even in private.
A lot has been said, and written, about the arguments and other incidences involving legislators. Hong Kong is an extremely civilised place. In some governments, lawmakers actually come to blows. In other countries opposition leaders are jailed, tortured or murdered as politicians are determined to further their cause.
In comparison, Hong Kong's lawmakers might seem docile and uninterested, but this is not the case. However, every time there is any sign of passion, of caring for something, the public condemns them. It is good to know that our politicians are as passionate and committed to their cause as their counterparts in more volatile countries.
While they are not the best way to achieve one's goals, sometimes these unseemly actions are necessary to make a point.
Susan, Editor
