Some people complain that hawkers disrupt businesses and block the streets. The government has been sending inspectors to regulate them and create a more ordered and modern environment. But is this really the answer? Almost all the shops close to the hawker stalls are rented out and do good business. There is usually a good mutual relationship between regular shops and hawkers. I cannot understand why the government is clamping down on them. In these hard economic times, it is not easy to make a living. There is already a widening gap between the rich and the poor. Clamping down on hawkers will only worsen the problem. Hawkers offer goods at reasonable prices, which is what Hongkongers need right now. Besides, hawker stands are part of our culture and some families have earned a living with them for generations. It not only makes no economic sense to let them go; it will also be a loss to Hong Kong. Kera Wong, HKSYCIA Wong Tai Shan Memorial College From the Editor Thank you for your letter, Kera. It is strange that a city like Hong Kong, which prides itself on being a free market, would take to clamping down on people just wanting to earn a living. You are quite right when you say hawkers are a part of our culture. It seems, if the incident with the shoeshiners in Theatre Lane is anything to go by, that the government recognises this and should allow them to continue their trade. One thing to consider, though, is that hawkers are not necessarily welcomed by regular shops. Hawkers don't have to pay rent and utilities and so they can offer their goods at a cheaper rate than shops can. This could result in them undercutting the prices of regular shops and disrupting more conventional businesses. Susan, Editor
