The traffic congestion that plagues Hong Kong's streets is a matter of great concern for both commuters and the regulators in the Hong Kong Government's Transport Department. Commuters spend a lot of time getting to and from work and are also exposed to airborne pollution in the form of particulates that can be inhaled. Many people, notably in the Health Department, are concerned that standards of public health will deteriorate. Finally, it is perceived that the tourism industry, one of the pillars of the local economy, may be negatively affected.

It has been suggested that the owners of private cars should be charged when they drive in certain areas. Essentially, an electronic road pricing system would automatically charge car owners for driving in certain districts. Similar systems operate successfully in other countries, for example, Singapore. Despite the evident benefits of making drivers pay for the pollution they create, as well as reducing the number of cars entering high-traffic zones at peak hours, some people are very concerned about the method the Government may use to impose charges on car owners and the potential for system abuse.

All registered car owners will need to affix an electronic "chip" to a scannable part of their vehicle (for example, the windscreen). This chip will be scanned whenever the car enters an area with pricing restrictions, such as the central business district.

1. Discuss the extent to which these issues may invade the privacy of users in an unreasonable manner. Engage in conversations with other students as much as you like!