'Tourists could get tired of monthly fireworks shows'
The government's announcement of plans for monthly firework displays and drone shows drew mixed reactions from lawmakers and tourism scholars on Wednesday.  Financial Secretary Paul Chan said in his annual budget speech that the administration will make good use of Victoria Harbour to offer "enchanting experiences" for tourists and locals.  But DAB lawmaker Holden Chow told RTHK that while more mega events are welcome, tourists may get tired of fireworks shows if they take place every month.  "On one hand, we believe that the government should put resources to boost our economy, especially our tourism. But at the same time, we would also advise the government when they are taking the approach to organise mega events, that they also need to look after the effectiveness," Chow said.  "We do hear from people from all walks of life that the firework displays... maybe it's not necessary to do it every single month, because tourists might be fed up with that."   Tommy Cheung from the Liberal Party welcomed the measures. "Talking about the fireworks, it's been a big attraction for mainlanders especially. Even my kids would love to see it. My grandchildren like to see it. But obviously, we're talking about fireworks per se that we do twice annually. Usually, the second or third day of the Chinese New Year," he said.  "So, I can understand a lot of people were thinking, if you do it every month, then you would probably get sick and tired of it."   Dennis Wong, a hospitality expert from the Vocational Training Council, said while he welcomes the idea, additional "Hong Kong elements" are needed to make Victoria Harbour more attractive for tourists.  "This kind of show has to be unique to Hong Kong. Otherwise, the tourists will think that it's something similar to other cities in the Pearl River Delta or maybe in other parts of the world," he said.  "So we have to make it a good show and with stories related to Hong Kong, and also with a certain standard to show the Hong Kong brand."