Dozens of legislative councillors went on a shopping spree at the Victoria Park Lunar New Year Fair on Thursday, expressing hope that their spending of tens of thousands of dollars could encourage the public to consume more locally.

Led by Legislative Council President Starry Lee, the lawmakers each spent at least HK$888, with many of them saying they spent a lot more than that.

They said they mostly bought lucky flowers and plants, food and creative products designed by local students.

"I hope us coming here to spend money can stimulate public consumption confidence. And we hope that the people can go support different Lunar New Year stalls," said Ronick Chan, the chairman of the House Committee.

"I already went to the one in Tsing Yi near my district office to spend, but I believe our colleagues are still hungry to spend more — they'll go to their own neighbourhoods to support local consumption."

Lam Chun-sing, who chairs the Federation of Hong Kong and Kowloon Labour Unions, said Hong Kong people can promote the culture of visiting the fairs before the new year to tourists, for them to also share the joy of the festive period.

Election Committee lawmawker Junius Ho said he went for some durian ice cream and iced mango, and that they all had a good time at the fair.

The DAB's Chan Pok-chi, representing the agriculture and fisheries sector, said there was some quality dried seafood available at the markets.