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The following statement is issued by the Judiciary on behalf of the Hon Mr Justice Litton, Permanent Judge of the Court of Final Appeal :

"I have tendered my resignation as a Permanent Judge of the Court of Final Appeal pursuant to s.14(5) of the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal Ordinance with effect from 14 September 2000.

I shall then be 66, having served 8 years on the Bench: Eight fulfilling years, the last three as a member of the Court of Final Appeal: A court unique in its concept: The envy of the Common Law world, in which I have served with joy and pride.

Hong Kong is my home. A decision like this does not come easily. Ultimately it is a matter of priorities: How to balance professional life with family commitments, when members of my family are scattered in different countries overseas. At this stage of life, I feel that I must give priority to my family commitments.

It has been my good fortune to have been appointed as one of the first Permanent Judges of the Court of Final Appeal. This Court, under the distinguished leadership of the Chief Justice and with its strong overseas component, will grow in international reputation as the years go by. I am greatly honoured that the Chief Executive has appointed me as a non-permanent judge, to take effect upon my ceasing to be a Permanent Judge. I look forward to contributing to the work of the Court in my new capacity, and to working with younger colleagues.

I whole-heartedly welcome the new appointments to the Court of Final Appeal made by the Chief Executive. These appointments and my appointment as a non-permanent judge are, of course, subject to the endorsement of the Legislative Council."

End/Wednesday, May 10, 2000

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