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Following is a transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Food and Health, Dr Ko Wing-man, at a media session after attending a radio programme this morning (January 26):
Reporter: (On whether the Hong Kong Government will make reference to the restriction arrangements in Macao)
Secretary for Food and Health: As I have said before, we are aware that a slightly different arrangement was in place to address the supply problem of infant formula in Macao. Having considered the difference between Hong Kong and Macao, particularly in terms of market size, our meeting with major infant formula suppliers yesterday had reached a consensus that the measures announced last evening would be the right ones that we would like to adopt for the time-being. We have repeatedly assured that local supply of infant formula is adequate. Our suppliers have also resorted to different channels including the media to assure that their supply is and will be adequate. Secondly and most importantly, we are taking measures to restore the order of the retail chain. This is a very important measure in tackling the problem. Thirdly, we have brought into place the system to collect consumers' feedbacks on retailers' malpractices and impose sanctions if necessary. We are confident that this triple-level approach would be effective in restoring the confidence as well as order in the retail market. The Government would not rule out bringing in further measures but at this stage, we will not openly discuss further possibility of other premature measures.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Saturday, January 26, 2013
Issued at HKT 13:39
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