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Following is the transcript of remarks (English portion) by the Acting Chief Executive, Mr Henry Tang, to the media on the State Council's approval of Mr Donald Tsang's resignation as Chief Secretary for Administration at the West Wing lobby, Central Government Offices this (June 2) morning:

Acting Chief Executive: The State Council has just announced its approval of Mr Donald Tsang's resignation as Chief Secretary for Administration. As the Acting Chief Executive, I will continue to work closely with all the Principal Officials and the entire civil service. We will continue to work steadfastly to ensure the smooth functioning of the Government and the social stability of our community. I have invited all members of the Executive Council to stay in office until the new Chief Executive takes office. They have all agreed to stay. Our most important task now is to make proper arrangements for the election of a new Chief Executive. We will ensure that a new Chief Executive is elected as scheduled and smoothly in an open and fair manner. I am confident that all Principal Officials and all members of the Executive Council, and all my colleagues in government will do our best for the stability, prosperity and the development of Hong Kong as well as for the community.

Reporter: You talked about smooth arrangements for the Government.  Can you elaborate a bit?

Acting Chief Executive: We know there is an election going on and we will ensure the smooth functioning of normal day-to-day functions of government. Every day there are many things that happen so we will ensure the smooth functioning of government during this period until a new Chief Executive takes office.

Reporter: Do you support Mr Tsang?

Acting Chief Executive: Yes, I support Mr Tsang in his bid for being the new Chief Executive and I will support his campaign in every way I can under the Principal Officials guidance notes.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

Ends/Thursday, June 2, 2005

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