Attention TV/radio announcers:

Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:

     The Hong Kong Observatory has issued the Very Hot Weather Warning.

     To prevent heat stroke, avoid prolonged activities outdoors.

     If engaged in outdoor work or activities, wear a wide-brimmed hat and light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes. Stay in shaded areas as much as possible.

     Drink plenty of water, and avoid beverages containing caffeine or alcohol.

     If you feel sick, consult a doctor right away.

     Police are investigating a fatal traffic accident in Ma On Shan last night (August 8) in which a 44-year-old man died.

     At about 8.10pm, a bicycle ridden by the 44-year-old man was travelling along On Chun Street towards Sha Tin. When reaching near the junction of On Chun Street and On Chiu Street, the bicycle reportedly lost control and the man subsequently fell on the ground.

     Sustaining injuries to his head and neck, the man was rushed to Prince of Wales Hospital in unconscious state and was certified dead at 9.19pm.

     Investigation by the Special Investigation Team of Traffic, New Territories South is underway.

     Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers at 3661 1346.     

     Regarding an online rumour claiming that the Immigration Department (ImmD) shall prohibit Taiwan residents from entering Hong Kong, ImmD stressed today (August 8) that such rumour is totally unfounded. ImmD will continue to process entry applications for any visitor entering Hong Kong in accordance with the prevailing laws and immigration policies.

     In response to a Taiwan media report of August 7 which mentioned that the Hong Kong Economic, Trade and Cultural Office (Taiwan) (HKETCO) sued a member of the public in Taiwan, thereby impeding his freedom of expression, a spokesman for the HKETCO pointed out today (August 8) that the content of the report deviates from facts and clarified as follows:
 
     The HKETCO received in the afternoon of August 6 a parcel, which included a letter with the issuer's name, a "bloodstained shirt" dyed with red paint, and joss paper used for worshipping. The letter alleged that if the confrontations in Hong Kong would not be resolved quickly, the HKETCO would face the most radical, or even violent and irrational measures. The letter also claimed that hackers had obtained the personal particulars of all staff members of the HKETCO. The letter stated that the HKETCO, after receiving the letter, "should appreciate the severity of the issue in order to protect the personal safety of all staff members of the HKETCO in Taiwan".
 
     Since the content of the letter and the objects concerned carry obvious connotation of threat, we have to make a report to the Taiwan police in order to protect the personal safety of all staff members of the Office. The HKETCO has not initiated any legal proceedings against the individual concerned through the Taiwan police or prosecution authorities. According to our understanding, the Taiwan police are investigating the incident and will follow up in accordance with the laws of Taiwan.
 
     The HKETCO reiterates that it has all along been respecting the freedom of expression of the public. The HKETCO will also continue to convey to the relevant authorities in Hong Kong views expressed to the HKETCO by various sectors in Taiwan on issues relating to Hong Kong.

     Regarding the online discussion about the number of traffic lights damaged recently and the extent of the damages, the Transport Department and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) today (August 8) responded as follows:

     During the recent protests, about 200 sets of traffic lights were damaged to varying degrees, including some being blackened or with cables cut; and some with components damaged. When circuit abnormalities (such as cables being cut) are detected by the protective device of the power supply of the traffic lights, the power supply will be cut off by the protective device to ensure safety.

     Relevant departments have been fully engaged in the repair works in the past few days. Most of the traffic lights have resumed normal operation. As at 5pm today, seven sets are still being repaired. The EMSD will continue to actively follow up.