The government introduced a minimum wage of HK$28 in May 2011. It was raised in May this year to HK$30. Labour activists say it is far from enough and suggest HK$35 would be more equitable. Business on the other hand complains that it is hurting companies, especially small and medium-sized ones, and urges the government to be cautious about further rises. The controversy will not die away – and today the government will further stir the pot when it releases its official poverty line. This will be set at half the median household income. It is expected to show that as many as 1.3 million people are living in poverty. The South China Morning Post spoke to a cross-section of workers about their views on the minimum wage and poverty.