Tobacco Control Office

The Tobacco Control Office was set up in 2001 under the Department of Health to coordinate the Government's tobacco control efforts and to promote a smoke-free culture in Hong Kong through intersectoral collaboration and community participation.

Recognising the complexity of tobacco control issues, the office has adopted a multi-pronged approach to achieve its goals. One of the priority areas is to assist managers and staff working in statutory no-smoking areas to comply with and enforce the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance. In 2004, the Tobacco Control Office organised 69 workshops for 1 039 venue management staff of statutory no-smoking areas. In addition, 125 restaurants and 136 shopping malls were visited by officers of the Tobacco Control Office and the legal requirements were explained to managers of these no-smoking areas. Furthermore, 143 Smoke-free Workplace Workshops were conducted for 3 313 managers and staff of workplaces.

Under the ordinance, tobacco advertisements are prohibited in printed publications distributed in Hong Kong. The office screened 2 134 issues of printed publications. A total of 23 warning letters concerning tobacco advertisements were issued during the year. The office also organised health education activities by itself or in collaboration with other organisations to increase public awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco and second-hand smoke.

Hong Kong Council on Smoking and Health

The Hong Kong Council on Smoking and Health is an independent statutory body to acquire and disseminate information on the hazards of using tobacco products, and to advise the Government on matters related to smoking, passive smoking and health.

During the year, the council conducted publicity and community involvement campaigns with particular emphasis on discouraging smoking in public places and in workplaces. The council continued its school health education programmes. In addition to 108 health talks delivered to primary and secondary schools, the council arranged a tour of an interactive education drama in 95 primary schools. The council also operated a telephone hotline to receive enquiries, suggestions and complaints from the public on matters related to smoking and health.