Government response to media enquiries relating to Gay Games

     In response to media enquiries relating to the Gay Games to be held in Hong Kong in November this year, a Government spokesman today (August 24) gave the following response:
      
     Hong Kong is an international city, with many local, Mainland or overseas organisations hosting different events in Hong Kong. The organiser must comply with Hong Kong laws and regulations, regardless of where the events are held, including private venues, government venues or public spaces.
      
     The Gay Games is hosted by a community organisation. Many of its events will be held in private venues. The Government has reminded the organiser to observe the laws and regulations in Hong Kong, regardless of whether the events are held in private venues or not. Any event application submitted to the Government, including those involving government venues or public spaces, will be handled in accordance with relevant laws and procedures. The applicant must follow the existing regulations and procedures to submit applications to the corresponding government departments. Some events may even require licences and permits to be applied for from relevant departments.
      
     All departments will process applications for use of venues and public spaces in strict accordance with existing procedures and criteria. Subject to the details of the event, additional requirements including crowd control and safety measures will be imposed as necessary. Furthermore, all departments will clearly stipulate and require compliance with the laws in Hong Kong, and the rules and conditions set by the relevant departments, to ensure that the event is conducted in a lawful, safe and orderly manner.