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

Following is a statement by the Director of Fire Services (designate), Mr Lam Chun-man, in response to his new appointment:

"I am pleased that I am appointed by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to succeed Mr Hsu King-ping as the Director of Fire Services.

"I am grateful to the good work of Director Hsu and former Directors. Under their capable leadership, the Department has grown from strength to strength.

"The years ahead will present many challenges. I shall endeavour to communicate and work closely with my colleagues to meet the challenges. Through re-organising, re-engineering and re-prioritising our services and work procedures, we shall strive to enhance the quality and efficiency of our fire and ambulance services for the public."

End/Tuesday, December 10, 2002

NNNN