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

    Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Security, Mr Ambrose S K Lee, in response to media enquiries about covert surveillance and Ching Cheong's case at the lobby of the Main Wing, Central Government Offices today (August 8):

Reporter: How do you allay public concerns about the Chief Executive Order...?

Secretary for Security: The CE Executive Order is to regulate what we have been doing all along in covert surveillance. I must emphasise that covert surveillance is a necessary measure for all law enforcement agencies around the world. In the past, covert surveillance has helped us bring many criminals and corrupt officials to justice. The Executive Order is to make the process more transparent and to give a clearer legal backing to our law enforcement officers. The Executive Order, I must emphasise, does not impose any additional criminal liability on any individual. It has also not removed any constitutional rights from our citizens.

Reporter: Any update about Ching Cheong's case?

Secretary for Security: On Mr Ching's case, we met Ching's family last Friday. The family has put up some requests and we will take them up with the Mainland authorities.

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

Ends/Monday, August 8, 2005

NNNN