Talks are underway with charity organisations to ensure the safety of free rice distribution events, Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs Carrie Lam says.

Speaking on a radio talk show today, Mrs Lam said free rice distribution is a tradition and should be retained, but organisers must ensure public safety. She said charities should modernise their giveaway methods to distribute the rice, such as giving the elderly coupons to avoid queuing up for long periods.

From mid-July, the Government will adopt a zero-tolerance approach and take strict enforcement action on clothes collection cages on the street. It will use the Summary Offences Ordinance, which gives the authorities power to remove the cages without notice. She urged owners of cages to remove them voluntarily before enforcement starts.