Happy together: Secretary for Home Affairs Dr Patrick Ho visits Cheung Chau to see the selection process for the Bun Scrambling Competition, and get a better understanding of the design, construction and safety standard of the bun tower.

Secretary for Home Affairs Dr Patrick Ho has hailed the safe return of the Cheung Chau bun scrambling event, adding the Government supports Hong Kong's traditions.

Dr Ho visited Cheung Chau today to see the selection process for the competition, and get a better understanding of the design, construction and safety standard of the bun tower.

The 48 participants have attended training courses and been divided into six groups of eight. The 12 who climbed the tower in the shortest time qualified for a place in the competition set for midnight on May 16.

Concerted efforts

Dr Ho thanked Government departments and local community groups for their contributions in reviving the event, which was banned after an accident in 1978.

"It is a traditional activity and I am sure people will be excited to again take part in it," Dr Ho said, adding there will be a new arrangement for holding the competition this year.

The traditional elements will be preserved, and modern technology has also been injected into the climbing method and the design of the bun tower.