Talk of the town : Smoke-free Hong Kong
【明報專訊】The smoking prevalence rate has dropped to 9.5% in 2021, marking the first time Hong Kong has a single-digit percentage of smokers. In his Policy Address, Chief Executive John Lee set a target of bringing the smoking prevalence rate to 7.8% by 2025. The government hopes that the falling smoking prevalence rate will help build a 'smoke-free Hong Kong'.
To reduce the short-term smoking prevalence rate, the Council on Smoking and Health has further suggested a rise in tobacco duty. The suggestion, if adopted, will bring the price of a pack of cigarettes to around $100. It has also been suggested that the 'Statutory No Smoking Areas' should be expanded to all public transport terminals and the areas that fall within 10 metres of schools or elderly homes.
The Long-Term Tobacco Policy Concern Group has expressed worry that the rise in tobacco duty might backfire. The rise in tobacco duty might cause smokers to turn to the underground market, which further aggravates the illicit cigarette trade problem in Hong Kong.
■Grammar booster
backfire
To have the opposite effect of the one intended.
E.g. Economists believe that the introduction of new taxes will backfire and worsen the cost of living crisis.
■Game
Let's see what the words mean! (See the picture b)
(Answer on next text)
■Gear up
The rise of tobacco duty will increase the cost of buying cigarettes.
(True/ False)
(Answer on next text)
■Glossary
prevalence (n) 普遍性
short-term (adj) 短期的
underground (adj) 地下的
addictive (adj) 易上癮的
(Criticisms on this publication, if any, are aimed at pointing out the errors or defects of certain systems or policies with a view to rectifying or eradicating such errors or defects, as well as prompting improvement or remedy for them via lawful means. There is absolutely no intention of inciting hatred, discontent or hostility towards the government or other classes of the community.)
[Smarties' Power English 第368期]
Story : Where there's smoke, there's fire
【明報專訊】Little Sister was quietly doing her homework and Mother Bear was... 詳情
