Hong Kong restaurants hungry for coronavirus backup
- With many diners preferring to give their contact details rather than use the official app, restaurateurs are complaining about the added responsibility on their shoulders
Together we fight the virus, goes the theme of the anti-pandemic campaign, but not when it comes to contact tracing. The government’s “Leave Home Safe” app, to help find people in the event of possible exposure to infection, has divided the community and upset operators of small businesses such as restaurants.
It has proved an exception to the rule that Hongkongers are supportive or accepting of measures from face masks to temperature screening to closures of businesses, services and facilities that are part of normal life.
The issue has come to a head following last week’s relaxation of social-distancing measures such as the return of after-dark dining. The effect is twofold.
Downloading of the app may have increased, but so has evidence of reluctance to use it because of concerns about the security and privacy of personal data. Restaurateurs report that many customers prefer the option of leaving personal contact information – a name and phone number. This reflects an abiding community awareness of personal data privacy.
It is only human nature that having to navigate red tape to enter a restaurant may seem inhospitable and give affront. This can lead to an impulsive temptation to leave false details.
It is not clear whether leaving wrong information intentionally is an offence, but restaurants have no power to request documentation to check details given. This could put them in a difficult position if they are seen not to be compliant with contact-tracing requirements.
Not surprisingly, restaurant operators have been complaining about added responsibility and the lack of manpower to monitor whether every patron has used the app or left contact information.
Relaxation of curbs on normal social activity when the trend of infections permits, coupled with effective contact tracing, is in keeping with the theme “Together we fight the virus”. But there is a perception of misalignment of power and responsibility between service provider and user. How can a restaurant operator be responsible for ensuring a patron gives accurate information without the power to do so? The government needs to clarify their respective obligations and the consequences of failing to meet them. Education and transparency are the most effective tools of enforcement.
