Pressure is mounting to tighten newspaper auditing procedures after the ICAC investigation into allegations of bogus print runs. The Hong Kong Audit Bureau of Circulation is to become independent from its links with Britain. It will adapt its methods to suit what it calls the 'complex and unique' local distribution system. Advertising agency bosses last night welcomed the move to call in Price Waterhouse to handle circulation audits from July to December this year. Bureau chairman Claire Leung said: 'The aim of this move is to provide a timely, affordable and reliable circulation audit to publishers based in Hong Kong.' Meanwhile, advertising agency Leo Burnett Media has suspended all its bookings with the Hongkong Standard. The move follows Independent Commission Against Corruption allegations that the paper had dumped thousands of copies every day to boost its sales figures and dupe advertisers and a British-based circulation auditor. A spokesman for the company said: 'Increased pressure must be brought to bear.'
