Removal of royal symbols sparks row

The removal of colonial symbols from the Legislative Council Building has sparked anger among traditionalists.

A bronze crown and the royal coat of arms on the building's roof are among scores of emblems which must be removed before July 1. But experts fear the work will cause permanent damage.

Scaffolding has been erected to allow them to inspect the symbols. However, a Legco spokesman admitted their removal could deface the 85-year-old building.

Antiquities Advisory Board chairman Professor David Lung Ping-yee saw no need to remove the symbols. The building's architects designed several sections of Buckingham Palace, he said.

'This is not any piece of colonial architecture, it is part of history,' said Professor Lung. He said the symbols could be plastered over, like parts of Government House.