An initiative to promote scientific development, creative industries and tourism could result in 680 new jobs.

Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB) Secretary Rita Lau Ng Wai-lan announced the plan yesterday.

The CEDB plans to recruit another 175 civil servants in the coming year as part of the government's economy-boosting measures announced by Chief Executive Donald Tsang.

These measures also include HK$100 billion in loan guarantees for enterprises.

Lau told reporters that the expanded Special Loan Guarantee Scheme, announced December 8, could be launched on Monday at the earliest if the Legislative Council Finance Committee approves it today.

The CEDB also plans to use its Innovation and Technology Fund to create jobs.

Among other things, the bureau plans to expand an internship program subsidized by the fund to fill about 450 positions annually. The program has been in place since 2004.

It gives first-degree graduates the opportunity to acquire research or industrial experience at local universities. Following recent changes, the program also accepts master degree holders to work in enterprises and research centers as well as tertiary institutions.

First-degree graduates would be paid a monthly salary of HK$10,000, up from HK$9000. Master degree interns would earn HK$12,000 monthly. Placements last two years.

"We'd like to stimulate students' interest in scientific research and development and to support graduates who have been affected by the financial turmoil," said Eddy Chan, Commissioner for Innovation and Technology.

Chan expected the changed program to be implemented by Jan 1.

At the same time, the maximum grant under the Small Entrepreneur Research Assistance Programme, which funds research and development work among technology entrepreneurs and small enterprises, will double to HK$4 million.

The CEDB also plans to promote Hong Kong as a multi-cultural capital and push to attract more conferences and exhibitions to the city. It also plans to renovate and improve local tourist spots.

"For instance, we would improve the light and sound effects in 'A Symphony of Lights' and embellish the waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui and Wan Chai as well as the Ngong Ping Village," said Commissioner for Tourism Margaret Fong.

Lau added the recent release of the Michelin Guide in Hong Kong, which rates the best restaurants in the city, and an earlier exemption of duties on wine would further enhance Hong Kong's position as a culinary center.

The government also plans to speed up applications for licenses for travel agents licenses to create more job opportunities.

In addition, Lau hopes to open up more mainland cities to join the Individual Visit Scheme.

To develop Hong Kong's creative industries, an office integrating government departments will be set up in April 2009.

Lau said the office would then work on developing promotion strategies with stakeholders.

(HK Edition 12/12/2008 page1)