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Drivers given online option for permits

Members of the public can now apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) through an online service launched today by the Transport Department.   Users of “iAM Smart+” or eligible applicants holding a valid personal digital certificate may apply online via the GovHK website and receive their IDP by post, without the need to visit a licensing office in person.   If the submitted documents and photograph are in order, the department will normally send successful applicants their IDP by registered post within 10 working days of the online application being made.   The department reminded those who plan to drive outside of Hong Kong to allow sufficient time for the IDP applications to be processed.   Citizens may continue to submit IDP applications by visiting licensing offices in person. Appointments can be booked online or by calling 3763 8080 to save queuing time.   Drivers may also send in their IDP applications by post or via the drop-in boxes placed at licensi

3.7% inflation marked in July

Overall consumer prices rose 3.7% in July year-on-year, larger than the 0.7% growth in June, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.   Netting out the effects of the Government’s one-off relief measures, July’s underlying inflation rate went up 1% on a year earlier, higher than the 0.4% recorded in June.   The Government said the climb in consumer prices in July was a result of the low base of comparison arising from the Government’s payment of public housing rentals and the Housing Society’s waiver of two-thirds of rent for tenants of Group B estates in July 2020.   Meanwhile, the rising underlying inflation rate was mainly due to the increased costs for meals out and takeaway food as well as local transport fares.   Compared with July last year, price increases were seen in electricity, gas and water, transport, housing, meals out and takeaway food, clothing and footwear, basic food, durable goods and miscellaneous services. On the other hand, year-on-year decreases in miscellaneous goods as well as alcoholic drinks and tobacco were recorded.   The Government commented that the underlying consumer price inflation rate’s 1% surge in July mainly reflected a low base of comparison a year earlier caused by the third wave of the local COVID-19 epidemic and the extra MTR fare discount. Pressures on major consumer price index components remained modest.   Looking ahead, while the continued economic recovery and rising import prices may entail some upward pressures on prices, the underlying inflation should remain largely contained in the near term as the local economy is still operating below capacity, it added.
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