Grand opening: Secretary for Security Regina Ip inspects the Customs hall at the Lok Ma Chau check point ahead of its 24-hour opening at midnight.

The Lok Ma Chau Control Point opened round-the-clock at midnight overnight. Secretary for Security Regina Ip was there to witness the start of the 24-hour passenger clearance operation - another milestone in enhancing cross-boundary facilities.

Mrs Ip said the Hong Kong Government attached great importance to facilitating the flow of passengers, vehicles and goods between Hong Kong and the Mainland at the boundary crossings.

She thanked the Central Government and the relevant Mainland authorities for their support and help in making the 24-hour passenger clearance operation possible before the Lunar New Year.

Round-the-clock service would bring overall economic benefits to Hong Kong and provide convenience to frequent commuters between Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta region, Mrs Ip noted.

The Government will continue to enhance cross-boundary facilities through flexible staff redeployment, streamlining procedures, best use of information technology and close cooperation with the Shenzhen authorities.

After touring the passenger arrival and departure halls and inspection kiosks, Mrs Ip expressed appreciation to staff of the Immigration Department, the Customs & Excise Department and the Police for the preparations they had made to ensure smooth and effective overnight service to the travelling public.

Between midnight and 06.30am, there were 2,350 passengers and 73 private cars arriving, and 2,283 passengers and 58 cars departing Lok Ma Chau.