LettersCoronavirus in Hong Kong: any wage freeze must be lifted at first opportunity

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A cleaner disinfects the area outside the Hong Kong Central Library in Causeway Bay on August 13. The Minimum Wage Commission failed to reach a consensus on a raise during its most recent meeting. Photo: Nora Tam

Published: 7:10am, 29 Sep 2020Updated: 7:10am, 29 Sep 2020

I am writing in response to “Avoid salary freeze for low-paid workers, Hong Kong government advisers urge members of the deadlocked wage board” (September 25).

Recently, the members of the Minimum Wage Commission failed to reach a consensus on a new pay level. The current minimum wage is still HK$37.50 an hour. With Hong Kong’s economy battered by the Covid-19 pandemic, commission members from labour groups and the business sector were at odds over the minimum wage review.

Both sides argued they had borne the brunt of the downturn. Many from the business sector argued that industries such as catering and retail had been hit hard since the social unrest last year. Those from labour groups argued to increase the minimum wage, saying workers had received wage freezes and were forced to take unpaid leave during the pandemic.

I understand that all businesses are facing an economic downturn, especially in the catering and travel industries. Some of them might even need to shut down. As the city’s financial situation is difficult, it is understandable that the minimum wage might not increase amid the pandemic. However, it does not mean we can ignore lower-paid workers.

There are not many workers who receive the minimum wage. Those who do, such as cleaners, are mainly from lower-income groups. These workers have contributed a lot during the pandemic. While many can work from home, they still need to work outside and bear a higher risk of contracting Covid-19.