A new website - www.budget.gov.hk - has been set up to collect public views on the forthcoming budget.

The Financial Secretary's Press Secretary Laurie Lo told news.gov.hk that the move will now allow people to send their views to Henry Tang before he gives his Budget address.

Mr Lo said, as general practice, the Financial Secretary begins a new round of consultation exercises when he starts preparing for the next Budget. Those consulted include political parties, legislators, academics, and various organisations in commercial and other sectors.

But the new website allows people outside of these groups to voice their opinions and expectations on the Budget. It not only gives them direct access to Mr Tang, it also helps him have a better understanding of public sentiment in preparing his Budget.

"Mail received so far does not simply ask the Government to cut taxes or increase spending on particular areas. Instead, some people present elaborated views on the management of public finances," Mr Lo said.

Although there is no time limit on submissions, people are encouraged to send in their views by mid-February to ensure they are considered in the preparation of the 2004-05 Budget.

All submissions will be handled by a small team of Treasury staff, and those that need following up will be referred to relevant departments.