Protest in Hong Kong not affect Thai workers

BANGKOK, September 30 (TNA) - The Ministry of Labour has confirmed that a pro-democracy protest in Hong Kong currently has not affected Thai workers. Sumet Mahosot, Director-General of the ministry's Department of Employment, made the confirmation on Tuesday, reasoning that as the protest occurs in financial and commercial areas, they do not affect most Thai workers who work in their employers' residences. Sumet reported that there are now 28,092 Thai nationals in Hong Kong, including 2,848 workers, most of whom, or 2,669, are maids and the rest are cooks and masseuses. Sumet said his department has, however, informed Thai workers of the current protest in Hong Kong. Besides, labour officials have warned Thai workers in Hong Kong not to enter protest sites. Meanwhile, Thai Airways International (THAI), the national flag carrier, announced that it has closed its office near protest venues in Hong Kong from September 30-October 5 for the safety of customers and staffs. However, THAI operates its Bangkok-Hong Kong flights as usual. (TNA)