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The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, said today (Monday) that he regretted that Mr Peter Lai would leave the Civil Service shortly but respected Mr Lai's personal decision.

"Mr Lai has made significant contributions to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. We have established a good working relationship over the past year," Mr Tung said.

"I have full confidence in Mr Lai's successor, Mrs Regina Ip, whom I believe is highly suited for the job of Secretary for Security," he added.

End/Monday, July 27, 1998

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