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

Following is the transcript of remarks (English portion) by the Acting Chief Executive, Mr Henry Tang, to the media in the lobby of Central Government Offices (West Wing), Central this evening (June 16):

Acting Chief Executive: The Returning Officer has just declared that Mr Donald Tsang, being the only validly nominated candidate, has been declared elected ipso facto. I will report to the State Council that the election has been completed in accordance with the law so that the Central People's Government can deal with the appointment of the new Chief Executive according to the Basic Law. I am pleased to see that the new Chief Executive has been returned smoothly, on schedule and in an open and fair manner. I am equally pleased to see that various sectors of our community participated actively in the election activities. All Principal Officials and members of our civil service will continue to do our best as we prepare for the new Chief Executive to take office.

Reporter: Any date set for the inauguration of the new Chief Executive?

Acting Chief Executive: We do not have any date yet because after I have submitted my report to the Central People's Government, the State Council has to hold a meeting so that they can formally appoint the new Chief Executive.

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

Ends/Thursday, June 16, 2005

NNNN

News Clip (Real Media/Windows Media)