Legislators have approved the allocation of $256 million for Hong Kong to host the World Trade Organisation's Sixth Ministerial Conference.

Financial Secretary Henry Tang welcomed the move, and said this marked a major milestone in fulfilling the mission to host the conference next year.

"The ministerial conference is the most significant event on the World Trade Organisation calendar and it is a great privilege for Hong Kong to host one," he said.

"We are delighted the Legislative Council has given funding approval for this event. We will now proceed full-steam ahead with the necessary preparatory work for the Sixth Ministerial Conference."

Mr Tang and Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology John Tsang also welcomed the appointment of Tony Miller as the Hong Kong's new Permanent WTO Representative.

Mr Tang said Mr Miller's rich experience and recognised expertise in the trade field will be a great asset to the Government in preparing for the conference.