Secretary for Home Affairs Tsang Tak-sing says the Government supports the development of Cantonese opera and is planning to subsidise rental of Sunbeam Theatre.

Speaking on a radio show this morning Mr Tsang said although the Chinese Artists Association's proposal to revitalise North Kowloon Magistracy was not selected, it does not mean the Government will not support the art.

"The Government injects over $33 million each year for the development of Cantonese opera, such as providing venues and nurturing manpower," he said.

"We are also planning to provide $100,000 each month, through Arts Development Council, to subsidise the rental of Sunbeam Theatre as a regular venue for Cantonese opera shows. We will also help find sponsors for the venue."

Mr Tsang said Hong Kong has signed a three-year agreement with the Mainland and Macau to promote and develop Cantonese opera.

"The Central Government has accepted our application to include Cantonese opera in the list of state non-material cultural heritage," he said.

"The next step is to propose to UNESCO to include Cantonese opera in the world non-material cultural heritage list. We should hear from it later this year."