A new steering committee has been launched to promote the development of innovation and technology in Hong Kong.

Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology John Tsang said today the Steering Committee on Innovation & Technology will co-ordinate the formulation and implementation of policies in the sector, and ensure greater synergy among different programmes in promoting priority technology areas where Hong Kong has strength.

"Following the signing of CEPA, the application of zero tariffs on goods and liberisation of the service sectors have created favourable conditions for the development of high-value and hi-tech activities in Hong Kong," he said.

Mr Tsang will chair the committee, and its members will hail from relevant Government bureaus, academia, industries and innovation and technology organisations.

Members have been appointed for a two-year term from January 12, and the committee's first meeting will be held next month.

Committee members include: Joseph Lee, Applied Research Council Chairman; Andrew Leung, HK Productivity Council Chairman; Victor Lo, HK Science & Technology Parks Corporation Chairman; Allan Wong, HK Applied Science & Technology Research Institute Company Chairman; Professor Kenneth Young, Research Grants Council Chairman; Professor Arthur Li, Secretary for Education & Manpower; Francis Ho, Permanent Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology (Communications & Technology); and, Anthony Wong, Innovation & Technology Commissioner.