Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government announced in Hong Kong Thursday to form a consultative committee and three advisory groups to help West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) development project back on track after February's setbacks in the Legislative Council.

The 16-member committee, chaired by Chief Secretary for Administration Rafael Hui, will re-examine, and re-confirm if appropriate, the need for the core arts and cultural facilities defined in the invitation for proposals for the WKCD issued in September 2003.

The committee will advise the Chief Executive on its justifications for the facilities, and any others they feel necessary to meet the aspirations of the local arts and cultural community and attract visitors, according to a statement by the HKSAR government.

During their term until the end of 2006, the committee members and the advisory groups will also examine the financial implications for developing and operating these facilities.

Under the committee, three advisory groups were also set up on Thursday to review relevant issues on the performing arts and tourism, the museums and the financial matters.

Chief Secretary for Administration Rafael Hui said the body and its advisory groups include members from the arts, cultural, entertainment and tourism sectors.

"They are mainly professionals or practitioners in relevant fields who would be in the best position to help re-examine the core arts and cultural facilities for the WKCD," Hui said.

(Xinhua News Agency April 7, 2006)