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Following is the English summary of the remarks by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at a media session on the ground floor of the Chief Executive's Office at Tamar this morning (May 8):
In about eight weeks, my team will pass the baton to the new administration. It is only natural that while some principal officials will stay on, others will move on. Whatever the case, my colleagues will remain fully committed until the very last minute. We are keeping a close eye on the unfolding eurozone crisis. We are always fully prepared for any contingency. We will strive for a seamless transition to usher in the new administration, avoiding any negative impact on our services to the public.
As we all know, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Stephen Lam, has decided to further his studies in the United Kingdom after the end of this term. His public service spans over 30 years. He has been a principal official of the SAR Government for almost a decade. Always dedicated to his duties, Stephen has made tremendous contributions in many areas.
As Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Stephen secured a timetable for the implementation of universal suffrage for the Chief Executive in 2017 and the Legislative Council in 2020.
He achieved many breakthroughs in fostering our co-operation with the Mainland. He helped ascertain Hong Kong's unique and irreplaceable role in a dedicated chapter in the National 12th Five-year Plan. On the co-operation between Hong Kong and Guangdong, Stephen strengthened Hong Kong's role as a leader in sustainable development and high value-added industries. We also saw significant progress in enhancing the ties between Hong Kong and Taiwan in recent years.
As Chief Secretary for Administration, Stephen supervises and co-ordinates the work of various policy bureaux. In particular, he has done an excellent job in ensuring a smooth transition of the Administration. His hard work is well recognised.
When Stephen first joined the Government in 1978, we worked together at the Civil Service Branch, the predecessor of the Civil Service Bureau. I saw in him an Administrative Officer with great potential. Over the years we have ridden out, shoulder to shoulder, many a political storm. He has met challenges with courage, dexterity and perseverance. He is an outstanding civil servant to the fingertips. On behalf of my colleagues, the SAR Government and the public, I would like to thank Stephen for his contributions to Hong Kong's development.
Stephen is a devout Christian. I wish him a most enriching time in his pursuit of theology at Oxford.
Ends/Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Issued at HKT 16:29
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