Two political parties on Friday expressed support for the mainland's move to bring back multi-entry permits for Shenzhen residents to visit Hong Kong. Visits will still be limited to seven days, but from December 1, Shenzhen residents can apply to come to the SAR as often as they like, rather than just once a week. National People's Congress Standing Committee member Starry Lee, from the DAB, said the move shows Beijing's support and care for the SAR. "We are very, very much thankful for the central government's support and attention for Hong Kong," she told reporters. "We hope different sectors in society can make good use of the central authorities' support measures to revitalise the local economy." The Federation of Trade Unions, meanwhile, said the move will boost exchanges between the people of Shenzhen and Hong Kong. "This of course also helps local tourism and drives the development of related industries. Our federation very much welcomes this," its president, Stanley Ng, told reporters. "Of course we hope that Hong Kong's capacity to receive visitors can improve, for example our border transport, our facilities and tourism hotspots." The federation said it hopes sporting and cultural events at Kai Tak Sports Park and the West Kowloon Cultural District will attract more tourists to the city.
