Since the start of the pandemic, we have been exhorted to protect the vulnerable, elderly and children, and we have all done our part getting vaccinated and obeying the restrictions imposed upon us. But with the economy now in a downturn and Hong Kong still far short of any kind of normal life, how much thought has been given to the future of our youth?

Why we should be very worried about Hong Kong’s Class of 2020

The words “Stability, Prosperity, Opportunity”, the theme of this year’s 25th anniversary celebrations, are displayed all over Hong Kong. I wonder what an unemployed school leaver or university graduate feels when they see this as they struggle to find meaningful employment in a slowing economy.

Bob Rogers, Sai Kung

Covid-19 policies ignore rules’ consequences

Government rules for incoming passengers from most overseas countries require those who have recently recovered from Covid-19 to choose one of two options. They must either produce a negative result from a PCR test taken within 48 hours of boarding the plane or produce a certificate issued by a medical practitioner or the relevant authorities as proof the passenger was infected between 14 and 90 days before the flight.

After contracting Covid-19 in the UK and now making preparations to return to Hong Kong, I have tried in vain to do so. No private or public health doctors in the UK that I know of are willing to issue these certificates. There are a limited number of specialised laboratories around the country that will do various tests for a large fee and then might issue a certificate confirming recovery from Covid-19.

It would appear the people who draw up Hong Kong’s Covid-19 policies have no idea about the real world out there and make up rules without first checking on the consequences of their dictates.

P.A. Crush, Discovery Bay

New rules for arrivals are no improvement

I am currently visiting my family in Europe and am preparing for my return home with gloomy anticipation. I am enjoying my visit not just for the pleasure of reunions but also for the complete absence of masks, social distancing and other restrictions I have been spared since my arrival.

The notion that the new system will encourage more visitors to go to Hong Kong, whether for business or social purposes, is fantasy. The prevailing requirements are as repellent as they are redundant.

David Hall, Mid-Levels

City needs alternative to voucher scheme

Although the first release of the vouchers in April increased retail sales by 11.7 per cent year on year, any boost from this second tranche is unlikely to last. The money that is now in consumers’ pockets might boost sales, but the prices of goods are also rising.

The offer of a HK$5,000 (US$640) voucher to every eligible Hongkonger might seem generous, but where does the money come from? The financial burden eventually lies on all taxpayers in Hong Kong. People who don’t need to spend the money are forced to spend it or lose it. Such involuntary consumption is a burden to residents.

The voucher scheme cannot address the problem of insecure livelihoods. Instead, the government should seek to guarantee better lives for its people. Put the needs of citizens first. Officials could propose legislation to raise salaries and manipulate market prices. When things become more affordable, consumers will naturally seek a higher standard of living and support businesses.

To spur recovery, it is also vital to curb the spread of Covid-19. Overall, the voucher scheme might not come off as well as expected. The government should opt for a better alternative.

Hobby Wong, Tseung Kwan O