Legislators will be asked next week to give early approval to $233 million funding for the handover ceremony.
According to a paper to be tabled to the Finance Committee for approval, $103.2 million will have to be spent in the current fiscal year. The rest, $129.8 million, will fall within the 1997-98 Budget.
A senior government official said: 'Of course, the total cost is not cheap. But nor is it deluxe. We think it's appropriate and affordable. It's a historic event and we want the world to know about it.' Of the estimated cost, $85 million will be spent for a news and broadcast centre at the Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Centre, adjacent to the Grand Foyer where the major ceremony will be held.
Up to 6,000 journalists are expected to cover the ceremony activities. About 3,000 have already confirmed their plans to the Government Information Services.
At least $16 million will be used for refurbishing the main venue. And $12.5 million will be needed for the hotel and transport expenses for the delegations.
Only delegation leaders and their spouses and assistants will have their hotel expenses paid.
