The Government is monitoring the situation in Sichuan and is ready to help with disaster relief after an earthquake measuring 7.8 on Richter scale rocked Wenchuan Monday killing 7,500 people.

The Government will extend the opening hours of 33 major and district libraries under the Leisure & Cultural Services Department and will provide additional manpower and financial resources, Chief Executive Donald Tsang says.

Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang has called on Italian business leaders to consider business opportunities in Hong Kong and expand bilateral economic collaboration with the city.

The Registration & Electoral Office urges eligible people to register as voters by May 16, as only registered electors can vote in the Legislative Council election on September 7.

Secretary for Education Michael Suen has finished his visit to Finland and Norway to observe the operation of their education systems.

Four universities will provide more than 700 study places for seniors, Elderly Commission Chairman Dr CH Leong says.

Most Hong Kong people associate horses with a punt at Happy Valley on a Wednesday night. However, local equestrian rider Tara Delaney feels Hong Kong's hosting of the Olympic Equestrian Events will strengthen the population's understanding of the sport and earn the city global sporting recognition.

The proposed Central Kowloon Route will cut journey time from Yau Ma Tei to Kai Tak to five minutes. The Highways Department is working to ensure Yau Ma Tei's many unique features will be left in place for future generations to enjoy.