The 2003 Hong Kong Rugby sevens tournament will continue as planned, and is expected to attract almost 40,000 spectators

The HKRFU has also been in close contact with the World Health Organisation and the Foreign Offices of all overseas rugby teams attending the tournament, and were satisfied that it was safe to proceed.

"However, with the concern about atypical pneumonia, we are implementing additional measures to ensure public safety this year," said Mr Molloy.

Mr Molloy said that 50,000 face masks would be issued free of charge and that extra hygiene and sanitary precautions were being carried out. Youth activities such as the Mini Rugby have been cancelled as a safety precaution to protect children, and additional information on health and safety will be available at the stadium for the public.

Those members of the public who decide not to attend the event would be issued full refunds, Mr Molloy announced.

"We wish to meet our obligations to the thousands of international visitors and teams here in Hong Kong, and see no reason for the tournament to be cancelled," said Mr Molloy.

Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa is to attend the Cup Final on Sunday, said director of the tournament, Peter King.