XN000022-1996-08-21 — Page 5

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Air quality is expected to further improve and API forecast for the territory tomorrow (Thursday) is from 30 to 40.

Members of the public can check the API readings on 2827 8541.

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Guesthouses for locals come under licensing control

All guesthouses for local people are required to operate with a valid licence starting September 1, a spokesman for the Home Affairs Department said today (Wednesday).

The Hotel and Guesthouse Accommodation Ordinance was enacted in May 1991 to provide for a licensing scheme to ensure that all hotels and guesthouses comply with requirements for fire and building safety, health and hygiene.

The spokesman reminds operators of guesthouses for local residents that the exemption period will expire at the end of August and that they are then required to operate with a licence.

Any operator who fails to do so may be subject to a fine of $200,000 and two years' imprisonment, and to a further fine of $20,000 for each day during which the offence continues.

The spokesman also appeals to members of the public to patronise only licensed guesthouses for their own safety.

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