Former editor avoids jail over semi-nude photo of actress

The former editor of East Week, which published a semi-nude photo of Carina Lau Ka-ling in 2002, was sentenced yesterday to six months' jail, suspended for two years.

The Eastern Court had intended to give Mong Hon-ming, 52, a sentence of nine months, but reduced it to six because he admitted two weeks ago publishing an obscene article. A guilty plea generally helps to cut a sentence by a third.

Principal magistrate Garry Tallentire said in handing down the sentence that although Hong Kong had freedom of speech, the media must exercise self-discipline.

The former editor, who now works in Beijing, said as he left the court yesterday that he was satisfied with the sentence.

'At the time, as the chief editor I felt I had to bear responsibility [for what happened]. The judge has given me a lighter sentence and I feel he has given me a chance to turn over a new leaf,' he said.

Mong said the case, which had lasted several years, had affected him greatly. 'In my work and in my life, it has created a lot of disturbance for me.'