Ready to help: Chief Secretary Henry Tang says the Government will do its best to assist in the Mainland's disaster relief work.

Chief Secretary Henry Tang has urged the community to join the Government to help Mainland snowstorm victims.

Speaking to reporters at the Central Government Offices today, Mr Tang said the administration will do its best to assist in the Mainland's disaster relief work.

He has conveyed Hong Kong people's sympathies to those affected by the storm and has contacted the Central Government to see what Hong Kong can do to help.

The Hong Kong Government has urged local charity groups to apply for grants from the Disaster Relief Fund to provide emergency aid. It will process their applications as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, it has approved a grant of $8 million from the fund for the Hong Kong Red Cross for emergency relief.

Mr Tang also urged Hong Kong factory owners on the Mainland to provide accommodation and food to stranded workers so they can stay in a safe place during the Lunar New Year.

He reiterated the Mainland authorities have taken every measure to ensure a stable food supply to Hong Kong despite the severe snowstorm. Thanking the Mainland authorities for their efforts, he urged Hong Kong people to be considerate.