Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Stephen Ip has ordered the suspension of the Ngong Ping 360 cable car system after a gondola fell to the ground. There were no injuries.

Mr Ip expressed deep concern over last night's incident and said the suspension will remain until the cause is identified by the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department, Skyrail-ITM (Hong Kong) and the MTR Corporation who are investigating the incident.

The gondola fell as it neared one of its angle stations near Chek Lap Kok South Road about 8.20pm.

Tourism Board Chairman James Tien expressed his disappointment at the incident and asked the operator for an explanation. Noting that it will have an impact on Hong Kong's tourism industry, he will ask the Legislative Council to discuss the issue.

Skyrail-ITM Managing Director Bill Calderwood said there were no people inside the gondola when the accident occurred. Noting passenger safety and comfort is the company's first priority, he said investigators will look at all possibilities and check all aspects of the system.