The proposed 2007 Digital 21 strategy has received broad community support, the advisory committee overseeing it says. The finalised plans will be rolled out in mid-2007.

A total of 70 written submissions were received at the close of the two-month public consultation on December 18 last year. The public agreed that Hong Kong should build on its existing strengths and harness the opportunities opened up by new technologies and the rapid technological development on the Mainland.

The objective is to build an inclusive, knowledge-based society and enhance Hong Kong's competitiveness in the globalised market.

Respondents also felt the Government should continue to demonstrate its commitment as a user, supporter and facilitator of information and communications technology.

Many submissions acknowledged the importance of establishing closer ties with the Mainland. In addition to ongoing liaison through existing Hong Kong-Mainland co-operation channels, some called for more concrete initiatives to tie in with the national 11th five-year plan.

Improvements underway 

On improvement measures being undertaken following the disruption of external telecommunications services caused by the earthquakes near Taiwan on December 26, members noted the Office of the Telecommunications Authority has liaised with the relevant operators to ensure efficient backup capacity and effective diversity will be available to deal with emergencies.

Outage reporting mechanisms for submarine cable systems and Internet access services are being finalised for implementation this month to ensure information is promptly disseminated to the public. 

Discussions with the operators on what should appropriately be undertaken at the Government level with Mainland and overseas authorities to facilitate the acquisition of adequate backup capacity and route diversity have begun. Public awareness and education will also be bolstered.