Gay Games Hong Kong (GGHK) must be conducted in a “lawful, safe and orderly manner” whether or not events are held in public or private venues, the government has warned. In response to media enquiries on Thursday, a government spokesperson said licences and permits may be required and government departments must process applications for the use of public venues and spaces in “strict accordance with existing procedures and criteria.” “The organiser must comply with Hong Kong laws and regulations, regardless of where the events are held, including private venues, government venues or public spaces,” the statement read. “Many of its events will be held in private venues. The Government has reminded the organiser to observe the laws and regulations in Hong Kong, regardless of whether the events are held in private venues or not.”