Hong Kong chief executive urges tourism industry for self-discipline

HONG KONG - Hong Kong Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying said on Thursday that the tourism industry should practice self-discipline.

His remarks cames after a Chinese mainland tourist was allegedly beaten to death by a gang of four men on Monday while mediating in a shopping dispute.

The government has expressed its grave concern over the fatal attack, Leung said during a Legislative Council question-and-answer session.

Leung said the incident and recent protests against Mainland tourists and parallel traders, have had a negative impact on Hong Kong's reputation in the Mainland and even around the globe.

He noted that there have been many problems within the travel industry over the years, including "forced shopping" and inflating the prices of valuable dried seafood and Chinese herbs.

Leung called on the industry to have better internal management and uphold self-discipline, to maintain Hong Kong's hospitable image.