In response to media enquiries on whether some scheduled premises will be allowed to operate a new business if there is a change in the business operated, mode of operation and/or services provided, a spokesman for the Food and Health Bureau today (May 8) made the following response:
In accordance with the Prevention and Control of Disease (Requirements and Directions) (Business and Premises) Regulation (Cap. 599F), the Secretary for Food and Health has issued directions by notices in the Gazette that certain scheduled premises, namely karaoke establishments, clubs or nightclubs, party rooms and bathhouses, should remain closed until May 21.
These scheduled premises may still operate other licensed business(es) which is/are not required to be suspended if the premises were operating more than one licensed business before the closure, and the operators have implemented all measures to effectively stop or avoid operation of business(es) and offering services which are required to be suspended.
For example, premises that were originally operated as karaoke establishments and catering businesses may continue their catering business in accordance with the relevant directions if all karaoke operation and services are suspended; relevant facilities, installations and equipment for karaoke activities are closed or properly sealed off; and notices are posted in prominent locations at the entrance(s) clearly indicating that only catering services but no karaoke services are provided in the premises. Other scheduled premises operating more than one licensed business could adopt similar measures to operate other licensed business(es) which is/are not required to be suspended.
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