LettersCoronavirus fourth wave: when will Hong Kong put clarity on the menu?

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Perspex shields separate diners at a restaurant in Hong Kong on November 25, in the early days of the fourth wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in the city. Photo: AFP

Published: 6:45am, 11 Dec 2020Updated: 6:45am, 11 Dec 2020

Given the deteriorating pandemic situation, the government has recently tightened preventive measures. However, many restaurants apparently do not comply with the requirements. They simply place plastic boards on a big table with up to six to eight people dining closely together, of course without wearing face masks.

In response to my inquiry regarding the 1.5 metre statutory distancing requirement between two groups of diners (each capped at two persons as of December 2), a restaurant manager advised me that the 1.5 metre rule was not applicable when plastic boards were put on a table.

I immediately called 1823 to seek clarifications, as I did not believe that was sensible. In response, a gentlemen told me that my inquiry would be dealt with at a later stage, but I am yet to receive a clarification up to this moment.

I am totally disappointed with the way the government is promulgating and enforcing social distancing rules and the lack of a response to my legitimate inquiry. The lax government attitude to and efforts on combating the pandemic is putting public health at risk. I look forward to positive action on this issue.

Albert Wong, North Point

Government still failing to put the public first