***********************************

    A spokesman for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government issued the following statement on the resignation of the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Donald Tsang today (May 25):

    The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Donald Tsang tendered his resignation today in view of his intention to run for the Chief Executive election.  His request for resignation has been submitted to the State Council for consideration this afternoon.  Mr Tsang proceeded on leave thereafter.

    In accordance with the provisions of the Basic Law, the Financial Secretary, Mr Henry Tang became the Acting Chief Executive when Mr Tsang proceeded on leave.  At the same time, the Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands, Mr Michael Suen started to act as the Chief Secretary for Administration.

Ends/Wednesday, May 25, 2005

NNNN