Way forward: Chief Secretary for Adminstration Rafael Hui says public views will steer the West Kowloon Cultural Development project.

Great importance is placed by the Government on lawmakers' views on the West Kowloon Cultural Development project, Chief Secretary for Administration Rafael Hui says.

An independent academic institution has been commissioned to analyse submissions collected during the project's consultation.

Responding to a Legislative Council interim report on the cultural project published today, Mr Hui said the Government will study it in detail.

He said the six-month consultation ended last month, gauging different views on the project. Submissions are being collated and analysed.

Welcome move

Mr Hui said the public welcomes the Government's move in providing more cultural and entertainment facilities, adding this will be the basis when deciding the project's way forward.

On the design of the canopy, Mr Hui said some people supported the idea while some object because of the cost. The Government will consider views expressed and come to a clearer conclusion before moving to the next phase.

He said the project will be processed in an open, transparent manner, adding lawmakers and the public will be informed of its progress.

Mr Hui reiterated his work as a private company's consultant in the past only covered political and economic issues, and he never partook in matters relating to the cultural project.

He said the Executive Council will be involved in formulating important Government policies, adding there  will not be any conflict of interest.