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Technology
and Creative Industries
42.
To
facilitate the development of a knowledge-based
economy, we should make greater efforts to promote
scientific and technological research.
I will invite the University Grants Committee
to consider, in conjunction with the Research Grants
Council, how best to encourage higher education
institutions to conduct more quality research,
including that into innovation and technology.
I also intend to relax the restrictions of
the Small Entrepreneur Research Assistance Programme
and the University-Industry Collaboration Programme
under the Innovation and Technology Fund, so as to
provide further impetus to the development of
applied scientific research.
43.
In
order to facilitate public access to the Internet,
we will earmark $210 million over the next two
years to provide WiFi networks in government venues
for free use by our citizens.
WiFi networks will first be installed, within
a year, in all public libraries, major cultural and
recreational centres, community halls, large parks,
and those government offices that are frequently
visited by the public.
44.
To promote the
economic development of Hong Kong, the business sector must, through innovation and
creativity, develop its own designs and brands in
order to enhance competitiveness in high value-added
industries.
45.
The film
industry is a major creative sector. The Film
Development Committee has submitted to the
Government a report on the industryî–¸ development
strategy. One of its recommendations is the
establishment of a new fund to help finance film
production and overcome the shortage of talent.
I have earmarked $300 million for this purpose.
The Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology
will consult the Film Development Council, which
will shortly be established, on the detailed
operation of the fund.
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