THE GUANGDONG provincial legal affairs authorities have solicited public opinions on its planned legislation to ban close-circuit TV cameras in hotel rooms, dormitories, public toilets and other places where individuals' privacy should not be breached. China Youth Daily commented on Wednesday:

Why a law to ban cameras in such places until now? They should have been there in the first place. But in China it is necessary to write it down in law.

More importantly, is there a national law to regulate the use of cameras in public places?

Given that leakage of personal information has become common, the provincial legislation to protect people's privacy is welcome, especially because it will set the red line for the protection of people's privacy.

Apparently, cameras in hotel rooms are for the protection of guests. But hotel staff can use the footage of guests in sensitive or private moments to blackmail them. Also, the cameras can help hotel staff get access to guests' personal information.

According to the public security department, it is illegal to install cameras in hotel rooms. To ensure that hotel managements do not violate the public security department's instructions, the authorities have to strengthen their supervision of the hospitality industry.

The proposed law will set the red line for protection of individuals' privacy, but officials have to take strict measures to ensure it is honored.