Hong Kong is set to gain more quality and sustainable sports events, Secretary for Home Affairs Dr Patrick Ho says.

The "M" Mark System and Support Packages for Major Sports Events will strengthen Hong Kong's position as a regional hub for major sports events.

The "M" mark scheme, unveiled today by the Sports Commission, is a new system of approval and support for major sports events, meeting criteria set by the committee to facilitate their evolution into market-oriented and sustainable events.

Committee chairman Herman Hu said the scheme will pool the resources of various sectors, including sports, tourism and business, to stage more world-class sports events and promote public interest in sport.

Financial aid

Funding support, available during the first three years of an event, will be in the form of an interest-free loan, matching fund or direct grant. Organisations can apply for either the matching fund or the direct grant, but not both. Applications will be subject to vigorous screening in accordance with a set of guidelines agreed by the committee.

To encourage the commercial sector to bring more major international events to Hong Kong, applications for the "M" mark from business organisations, including public relations firms and promoters, are welcome, provided that no funding support from the Government is required.

"M" mark event applicants can contact the committee secretariat at the Home Affairs Bureau, 41/F Revenue Tower, 5 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong (Fax 2519 7404).

Recognised events will be grouped together to form a Hong Kong Major Sports Events Calendar for overseas promotion and publicity to attract foreign spectators.