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Following is the speech (English portion) by the Secretary for Home Affairs, Dr Patrick Ho, at the spring reception hosted by the Home Affairs Bureau at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre today (February 10):

Ladies and gentlemen,

In the Book of Changes of ancient China, the sheep combines the characters of integrity and versatility. Both are vital for the further development of Hong Kong. We have to hold fast to our integrity in the rule of law, freedoms and civic rights, as well as our principle of free economy. To us Hong Kong people, the right to make money and the right to disagree are equally important. And a civil society is one which allows interest groups to interact for the public good. Our diverse interest and opinion put to test our ability to embrace differences, but our common social responsibility and dedication for a better Hong Kong will bind us together.

Ladies and gentlemen, the Year of the Ram will continue to be a good year.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion)

End/Monday, February 10, 2003

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