【明報專訊】All eyes are now on whether the government should issue another round of electronic consumption vouchers in the upcoming Budget to be announced next month. Hong Kong's economy bounced back from rock bottom last year mainly because it was possible for a gradual recovery of people's livelihood as the pandemic was brought under control in the later half of the year. However, the outbreak of the fifth wave has once again made it necessary to tighten pandemic restrictions substantially, highlighting the vulnerability of people's livelihood in the times of pandemic. The impact of the new wave of outbreaks has turned out to be much greater than the high hopes of the initial estimate. Since Hong Kong is still in "critical condition", it is reasonable to continue implementing drastic measures. There is no need to be too hamstrung by doctrinism as long as the public coffers are well-spent. Hong Kong might have to wait for over half a year before its border with the mainland could be reopened on a large scale. During the period of transition between the lifting of business restrictions as the pandemic eases off and the large-scale reopening of the border, electronic consumption vouchers can have the effect of supporting and enhancing people's livelihood and the economy. The scheme is worth a relaunch.