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In response to media enquiries, a Government spokesman made the following statement today (Saturday):

"The Chief Executive's Office (CEO) has not set up separate establishment to co-ordinate the activities of Mrs Tung. Hence, there is no incurring of additional public expenditure.

As the spouse of the Chief Executive, Mrs Tung has been serving Hong Kong with total devotion. She is currently the patron to some 60 organizations, playing an important role in promoting community work. Mrs Tung's scope of activities include receiving foreign dignitaries and their spouses, corresponding regularly with members of the public, and attending various public functions.

It is set out clearly in the annual Estimates that the staff of the CEO have the responsibility of assisting Mrs Tung in performing her duties as the spouse to the Chief Executive.

Staff in the CEO, including the Private Secretary and the Social Secretary, have to liaise with Mrs Tung on protocol and other official matters. Therefore, the purpose of having a working space set up within the CEO's premises is to facilitate the practical co-ordination of work among all parties concerned.

Mrs Tung's office occupies 12 square meters. The current arrangement arises from a practical need, and does not incur additional public money."

Photo: It shows the working space of the Chief Executive's wife in the Chief Executive's Office.

End/ Saturday, August 14, 1999

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