National security conditions newly added to restaurant licences
發佈日期: 2025-06-08 21:08
TVB News
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department has newly introduced national security conditions to restaurant licences and other licences.
The licences may be revoked if holders and related persons engage in "offending conduct" that's considered detrimental to national security and Hong Kong's public interest.
Many licensed eateries received letters from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department at the end of last month.
The letters stated that national security conditions were added to the terms of the licences and permits upon new issuance or renewal.
New conditions stipulate that licence and permit holders, as well as their "related persons," must refrain from engaging in any "offending conduct."
The director of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department can revoke their licences if their acts are deemed to be detrimental to national security and Hong Kong's public interest.
According to the authorities, "offending conduct" refers to criminal acts that may potentially pose harm to national security.
"Related persons" refer to board members, mangers, employees, agents and contractors.
Such newly added requirements also apply to licences for entertainment places and food factories.
Senior counsel Ronny Tong believes the court will not easily incriminate someone by his words.
He said whether a statement is considered as "offensive" should be evaluated based on a series of factors, such as the context, underlying meaning and who made the statement.
For example, he said, if someone used foul language against the country's leader, this could be deemed offensive against national dignity.
Simon Wong, president of the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants and Related Trades, believes everyone should obey the law and owners of eateries can seek legal advice if they are not sure about the regulations.
Once the licence is revoked, holders can file an appeal within 14 days.
