The Hong Kong Arts Development Council considers the content of the 31st Hong Kong Drama Awards not to be appropriate, says Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung. (PHOTO / LCSD, HKSAR)

HONG KONG – Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung Yun-hung has endorsed the decision of the Hong Kong Arts Development Council regarding the funding arrangement for the Hong Kong Drama Awards.

“Government departments and government-funded organizations are obliged to ensure public funds and resources are used properly, and for supporting projects with appropriate content only,” the secretary said in a statement on Friday.

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The statement came after reports in local media that the Hong Kong Federation of Drama Societies had been notified by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council that it was withdrawing its support for the Hong Kong Drama Awards following complaints about "inappropriate content and arrangements" in last year's event, damaging the council's reputation.

The decision of the HKADC meets the requirement and expectation of the government.

Kevin Yeung, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, HKSAR

“After prudent discussion and review, the HKADC considered the content and arrangement of the 31st Hong Kong Drama Awards not appropriate, and decided to reduce the funding support for that round of the awards,” said Yeung.

He explained that it is “reasonable and legitimate for the HKADC to ensure public funds will only subsidize and support arts programs with appropriate content”. 

“The decision of the HKADC meets the requirement and expectation of the government,” reads the statement.

The secretary also said whether or not cultural and artistic programs are supported by public funds is a question of the proper use of resources, and has nothing to do with restrictions on creativity.

As regards the view that the council’s decision will affect or even stifle creativity, he said: “The government believes that this is putting the cart before the horse and is confusing to the public. The government does not agree with such unreasonable remarks.”

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