Neglect is genocide

Hong Kong becomes more like the face of a cigarette pack with every visit.

Having just flown in from Tokyo, the first greeting is the Chinese symbol of marriage in 'double happiness' on the huge airport billboard. Added to this are the monstrous signs for 'Kent', 'Marlboro', 'Salem' and other international brand names plastered in a glaring way all over this unique city. From my observations, Hong Kong has the most widespread and aggressive advertising of any city in Asia and perhaps the world.

This advertising is obviously not for cosmetic purposes.

It is aimed at selling cigarettes, particularly at encouraging young and first-time smokers. In addition advertising establishes and reinforces choices in brand and acts as a stimulus or cue for current smokers. In the case of tobacco advertising, it is a deadly product which makes Hong Kong look untidy. In addition, the cigarette butts and packets are in most societies the largest item of environmental garbage.

The local authorities will be underestimating the global concerns and the change taking place if they think that Hong Kong can continue as a mecca for tobacco promotion. Neglect of this issue is a form of genocide where the business interests of a few, consign the many to premature death. This city must take the difficult decision and give lead to Asia by removing the unsightly and death-dealing advertising for tobacco.

HARLEY STANTON Wahroonga, New South Wales Australia