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The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, hosted a dinner at Government House tonight (Tuesday) in honour of the Chairman and members of the Board of the Airport Authority.

Attending the dinner were the Chairman, Mr Wong Po-yan, the Vice-Chairman, Mr Lo Chung-hing, and members Mr Ho Sai-chu, Mr Antony Leung Kam-chung, Mr Vincent Lo Hong-sui, Miss Maria Tam Wai-chu and Dr Peter Wong King-keung. The term of office of the current Board is due to expire on May 31, 1999.

Speaking at the dinner, Mr Tung said he would like to thank the Chairman, Vice-Chairman and members of the current Board for the time and efforts they devoted to the work of the Airport Authority.

"They have made valuable contribution to the airport project in the past few years. Under their steer and management, the Authority has been able to bring the services and facilities of the airport to the present high standards.

"The new airport is a mammoth project by any scale. Members of the Board have performed an important and demanding task, particularly during the most critical period of the transition of the airport project from the construction to the operational phase.

"Despite a bumpy start, the new airport has now proved itself to be a world class facility. Services are at high standards. Independent opinion surveys consistently show a high degree of satisfaction among users. There is growing international recognition of our magnificent new airport," he added.

Mr Tung took the opportunity to specially thank Mr Wong Po-yan for the leadership he had provided to the Authority in the past few years and the key role he had played in the new airport project.

The Chief Executive then presented souvenir plates to the retiring Chairman, Vice-Chairman and members to express his appreciation.

Photo: The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, presenting a souvenir plate to the outgoing Chairman of the Board of the Airport Authority, Mr Wong Po-yan, to express his appreciation for Mr Wong's contribution during his term of office.

End/Tuesday, May 25, 1999

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