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The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, made the following statement today (September 28) on the resignation of the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang:
The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang, tendered his resignation to me earlier today. I respect his decision and have recommended to the Central People's Government that he be removed from office in accordance with Article 48 (5) of the Basic Law.
Mr Tang will take leave immediately until the Central People's Government approves his removal from the post. Mr Michael Suen will be Acting Chief Secretary for Administration in the interim. Meanwhile, I have nominated a successor to the Central People's Government for appointment as Chief Secretary for Administration.
Mr Tang has told me that many people have encouraged him to consider coming forward as a candidate in the next Chief Executive election. He needs time to give serious thought to this matter and to listen to the views of the community. He accordingly has to relieve himself of his duties as Chief Secretary for Administration.
Mr Tang has extensive experience in public administration and has served Hong Kong in many senior positions. He was first appointed to the Executive Council in 1997. Since 2002, he has worked in various Principal Official posts in the Special Administrative Region Government, successively as Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology, Financial Secretary and Chief Secretary for Administration.
He has made substantial contributions in promoting Hong Kong's social, cultural, political, economic and financial development. Mr Tang and I have worked closely over the past two decades. During this period, Hong Kong has braved numerous adversities. Mr Tang has excelled in leading other Principal Officials and senior civil servants to work for our people and overcome the challenges that came our way.
His departure is a loss to me and my team. I appreciate that he needs to contemplate his next move in better serving the public. I am grateful for Mr Tang's dedication in serving the community. I wish him every success in his future endeavours.
Ends/Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Issued at HKT 12:40
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