CE speaks on appointment of SCED (with photos/video)

CE speaks on appointment of SCED (with photos/video)
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     Following is a transcript of remarks by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at a press conference on the appointment of the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development today (June 28):

Chief Executive:  The Central People's Government has approved the appointment of Mr Gregory So as the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development on my nomination, to succeed Mrs Rita Lau who has resigned because of health reasons.

     Greg joined the team of politically appointed officials three years ago. As the Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, he has gained a comprehensive understanding of the range of work of the Bureau, serving the public diligently and with devotion.  He listens well and is receptive to different views.

     Since Mrs Lau was on sick leave in March this year, Greg has been acting as Secretary.  He is effective in discharging higher responsibilities with a strong sense of commitment. With his ability and experience, I am confident that Greg will do well in his new position.

    On behalf of the SAR Government, I would like to thank Rita again and wish her a speedy recovery.

Reporter:  A question goes both to CE and Mr So. I wonder, CE, whether you see this process of a political appointee coming up to be Secretary as a step in the validation of the whole political appointee system.  And I wonder, Greg, whether given the difficulties that you had in the beginning taking over a job in the Government, whether this is any sort of personal validation for you?

Chief Executive:  Well, I believe in the political appointee system. We are working the system well, and we as a team are working towards an objective on one hand supplementing the work of a very strong civil service and at the same time giving flexibility of appointment and following the provisions in the Basic Law.  I agree this is the arrangement suitable for the Hong Kong political situation, and it has, as I said, been working well. We have been delivering the services which the public expect us to do. At the same time, I think we have the right people in the right job.

Ends/Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Issued at HKT 14:56

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