In response to media enquiries on the Hong Kong Pride Parade, a spokesman for the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau today (November 17) said that the Government is committed to promoting equal opportunities for people of different sexual orientations and transgenders on the basis of upholding the existing marriage institution, with a view to fostering in the community the culture and values of inclusiveness, mutual respect and non-discrimination.

     The spokseman said, "On public education and publicity, we have been using various channels, such as online platforms, television, radio, newspapers, seminars, briefings and roving exhibitions to promote the message of equal opportunities for people of different sexual orientations and transgenders. We have also introduced the Code of Practice against Discrimination in Employment on the Ground of Sexual Orientation to employers with a view to promoting equal employment opportunities among all persons, irrespective of their sexual orientations. At present, over 300 organisations employing a total of more than 500 000 employees have adopted the Code."

     "On support services for sexual minorities, the Government subsidises a 24-hour hotline operated by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals (TWGHs) to provide easily accessible support, counselling and referral services to sexual minorities and their families, as well as relieving their stress and difficulties in everyday life. Since its establishment in January this year, the hotline has provided service to over 1 600 users."

     The spokesman pointed out that training resources targeting medical and healthcare professionals would be launched later this year to enhance their knowledge of and sensitivity towards sexual minorities as well as encouraging the concerned professional organisations to include the training resources as part of their regular pre-service or in-service training. The Government is also drawing up a charter on non-discrimination of sexual minorities covering various domains for voluntary adoption by service providers with a view to enhancing acceptance towards sexual minorities. 

     "We are conducting a further study on the experience of other jurisdictions in the use of legislative and administrative measures to eliminate discrimination. The study is expected to be completed in the first half of next year. The findings will provide more information to facilitate a more in-depth and rational discussion in the community on whether legislation should be introduced to protect people of different sexual orientations and transgenders against discrimination," the spokesman said.

     The Department of Justice learned about the death of Senior Government Counsel, Mr Vincent Wong, this morning (November 17). We express profound sadness and will provide all the necessary assistance to his family.

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     Regarding an earlier announcement on a cluster of patients infected with Rhinovirus in a male ward for severe intellectual disability, the spokesperson for Siu Lam Hospital made the following update today (November 17): Three more patients (aged 23 to 57) and a staff member in the ward had presented with respiratory symptoms. Appropriate viral tests had been arranged for the patients and their test results were positive to Rhinovirus. The patients concerned are being treated under isolation with stable condition. The staff member is currently on leave.

     Admission to the ward has been suspended and restricted visiting has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward are under close surveillance.

​     The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.

Attention TV/radio announcers:

Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at regular intervals:

     Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

     The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (November 17) that Tung Chung Swimming Pool in Islands District has been temporarily closed for cleaning and superchlorination following the discovery of a small amount of vomit in the pool.

     It will be reopened at 5.20pm today.

     The department appeals to swimmers to be considerate and to keep the swimming pools clean. They are advised not to swim after a full meal and should use the toilet facilities if necessary before swimming.

     â€‹The Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Mr Lau Yip-shing, said today (November 17) at a passing-out parade of the Hong Kong Police College that the Police Force in face of difficulties and challenges with increasing complexity in recent years, has sucessfully risen to challenges to ensure public safety and social stability. He attributed it to public support and officers’ determination to tackle difficulties.

     Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Lau said being a police officer is not only a career but a mission. He particularly mentioned that the police had remained steadfast to help the needy despite of dangerous and harsh conditions when super typhoon Mangkhut stormed Hong Kong. Saying that it is an act out of officers’ sense of mission to serve the community and their care for Hong Kong people, he hoped the graduates would always keep in mind the mission of safeguarding Hong Kong and serving the community.

     Mr Lau encouraged the graduates to execute their duties in an honest, fair, impartial and selfless manner with courage and perseverance. He added that they should also keep themselves abreast of the times, strive for continuous improvement, and enhance their abilities to enforce the law and interact with people, so as to fulfill the Police mission of We Serve with Pride and Care.

     Lastly, Mr Lau, prior to his retirement, expressed his gratitude to the Force for the nurture and trust given to him, as well as support and care from fellow officers. He added that it is an honour to bloom with such a professional, committed and excellent Police Force.

     A total of 52 probationary inspectors and 169 recruit police constables passed out today.