Chief Executive Donald Tsang today praised the 2009-10 Budget for being pragmatic and forward-looking in responding to the financial crisis as well as laying the foundations for long-term growth.

He said the global, national and local environments have changed dramatically since last year's Budget, and Hong Kong's GDP is expected to contract this year, diminishing Government revenue.

"To tackle the formidable challenges, the Financial Secretary has adopted a counter-cyclical approach by boosting spending and providing some carefully considered and affordable financial-relief measures for the public and business," Mr Tsang said. "I fully support the Financial Secretary's approach and spending priorities."

He said the Budget will create jobs, boost confidence, foster a caring community and lay the foundations for future economic development.

"I hope the community will welcome the Budget that addresses pressing, short-term problems and also includes measures that promote our long-term growth."

Chief Secretary Henry Tang said the Budget is outstanding with measures to promote employment and help underprivileged groups.

The Financial Secretary's speech at the Legislative Council this morning was disrupted by two legislators. Mr Tang said the community will not condone unruly behaviour in the chamber and has sent a letter to LegCo president Jasper Tsang regarding the incident.

"The Budget is an important annual policy initiative that concerns all aspects of people's livelihood. Difficult times like this and economically challenging times like this, call for unity, including the administration and the legislature, to overcome the challenges," he said.

"LegCo has a solemn duty to approve the Budget. We hope to engage the council on the basis of mutual respect."

Click here to read Mr Tang's letter.