A tougher demerit-point system may be introduced for restaurants and food outlets, to boost environmental hygiene in Hong Kong.

Speaking on a Metro Radio programme this morning, Director of Food & Environmental Hygiene Leung Wing-lup said the existing demerit-point system requires a long time before an offending restaurant's licence can be cancelled.

Mr Leung said the Administration is considering ways to tighten the system, to make restaurant owners more likely to comply.

He expressed disappointment that many restaurants owners did not obey the food and hygiene laws, although the Government and media had frequently promoted the message that good hygiene is key to keeping Hong Kong healthy.

On another note, Mr Leung noted that some tenants in old, unhygienic private buildings had not cooperated with his department's staff. Specifically, they refused to supply water for cleaning the staircases and rooftops.

He urged the public to give full support to measures aimed at improving Hong Kong's environmental hygiene.