Business groups, John Tsang urge end to protests, citing harm to economy
We're at a critical juncture, says finance chief, as chambers of commerce warn lost sales are not the only cost; the city's reputation is also at stake
The business sector and the financial and commerce secretaries yesterday called for Occupy Central to end as soon as possible, saying the protests had damaged the economy.
Speaking for the first time since the campaign began on Sunday, Financial Secretary John Tsang Chun-wah said the financial market and its systems had been operating normally. The Hang Seng Index climbed 0.6 per cent to 23,064.56 yesterday.
But if the movement continued, he said, the Hong Kong market could face a loss of confidence. "Up to now there is still no indication that the protest will end in the near future," said Tsang. "If the protest drags on, the social conflict may become more acute," he added, referring to the attack by Occupy opponents on supporters of the movement in Mong Kok yesterday.
"I think Hong Kong has come to a critical juncture at this time," he said. "This is a time when we should look to solve problems that we face. This is not a time to lay blame."
He said it was difficult to evaluate the impact of Occupy Central and make a projection, as there had not been any estimate of the economic impact.