Proposals to merge several local economy schemes in a particular area to help boost the district's business income are being studied.

After chairing a Task Force on Employment meeting in the Central Government Offices today, Financial Secretary Antony Leung said the idea was under review as some members questioned its effectiveness.

The meeting found local economy measures such as Lung Tung Market in Wong Tai Sin and a computer festival in Sham Shui Po had been effective.

However, calls to gather several local economies together in one area were met with caution from some members who questioned the effects such a move may have on local shops and businesses. They warned it could bring economic competition. Mr Leung said the idea would be reviewed.

Meanwhile, Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Steven Ip said the Government was reviewing the need to retain the 7,000 temporary jobs it had created in the employment market.