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Bill to end sports board approved

Elaine Wu

The Legislative Council yesterday passed a long-delayed bill to disband the Sports Development Board. It will be replaced by the Sports Commission, a move that will give the government more control over funding.

The dissolution of the board, which is set for September 30, was recommended two years ago. It has been criticised for giving too little money to athletes and sports associations and spending too much on administration.

The commission will comprise 70 representatives from the sports community, while the board had only 15 members, Secretary for Home Affairs Patrick Ho Chi-ping said.

Elite sports will receive only $90 million in government funding this year - $20 million less than last year and under half the amount athletes say is needed.

But Dr Ho said yesterday that funding for elite sports would not fall because the streamlined administrative structure meant money would be used more effectively.

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