Education spending will rise by $2.2 billion in 2007-08 to $50.1 billion, accounting for nearly a quarter of the Government's total recurrent expenditure.

Financial Secretary Henry Tang said in his Budget Speech today that to expand Hong Kong's pool of talent, the Government will provide continuous support to tertiary institutions in attracting more students from outside the city to study and stay for work upon graduation.

"We will attract talent from around the world to pursue careers here through various talent admission schemes. Last year, more than 27,000 professionals were admitted under these schemes, an increase of 57% over 2003," Mr Tang said.

Techno-creative industries

To facilitate public access to the Internet, the Government will earmark $210 million over the next two years to provide WiFi networks in government venues for free public use.

WiFi networks will be installed within a year, in all public libraries, major cultural and recreational centres, community halls, large parks, and government offices frequently visited by the public.

Meanwhile, $300 million has been earmarked for the establishment of a new fund to help finance film production and overcome the talent shortages, as recommended by the Film Development Committee.

The Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology will consult the Film Development Council, which will shortly be established, on the detailed operation of the fund.