One of the proposals is the extension of no-smoking areas to within three metres of doorways of premises like schools and hospitals.
Speaking to RTHK, Lam said he thinks that would have a minimal effect on reducing people’s exposure to second-hand smoke.
“Three metres is, in fact, not a very big area,” he said.
“So if there are people smoking within four or five metres of the entrance, then depending on the wind, then you would probably still feel or smell a rather strong smoke in that area.”
Lam also believes doubling the fixed penalty for smoking in no-smoking areas will only have a temporary deterrent effect.
“But then in the long run, whether people will get used to it is quite another matter,” he said.
Lam said he is more concerned about the proposed ban on the sale of flavoured smoking products, which is set to be implemented in the second quarter of 2027, if endorsed by lawmakers.
“Now the maximum penalties for violation would be HK$50,000 plus six months of imprisonment for most. HK$50,000 of fine may not be high enough if we compare it to the potential profit of selling tobacco products,” he said.
He said he hopes such a ban can take place as soon as possible, saying such products are getting youngsters hooked on smoking.
The government had previously said it wants to reduce the smoking rate from 9.1 percent to 7.8 percent by the end of this year.
Lam said it would be quite a difficult target, but not unachievable.
“Whether or not we achieve that 7.8 [percent], this is not a magic figure. We have still to continue working hard on that,” he said.
