Closer ties to Macau and the rest of the Pearl River Delta region are being discussed to promote the economic integration of the area.

Responding to a question from Lau Kong-wah in the Legislative Council today, Secretary for Constitutional Affairs Stephen Lam said the Government is discussing proposals for ferry services between Hong Kong airport and Macau and the delta's main ports, and scheduled helicopter services between Hong Kong and Macau.

Co-operation with Macau and the rest of the delta has also been stepped up with the recent formation of the Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau Intellectual Property Database. The move will facilitate the exchange of information on intellectual property protection in the South China area.

Also, the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the tourism authorities of Guangdong and Macau have jointly implemented several co-operation projects, including the launching of a website that publicises the three destinations and other promotional activities.