【明報專訊】THE UNEMPLOYMENT rate in Hong Kong between June and August remained at 6.1%, the same as that between May and July. However, the fact that the unemployment rate did not go up does not signify an improvement in the employment markets. In fact, the unemployment rate is a lagging indicator, and the latest figures show an increase in the number of people unemployed. This shows that the situation in the labour markets remains difficult amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic might bring about change to some parts or structures of the economy. When the government implements measures to save jobs, it must be far-sighted and devote resources to new economic fields to ensure that Hong Kong’s competitiveness will not weaken because of changes in the circumstances. This will also create new conditions for the nurturing of new industries.