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The Government announced today (December 20) the appointment of Mr Andrew Leung Kwan-yuen, JP, to succeed Mr Kenneth Fang Hung, JP, as the Chairman of the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC).

The appointment was made by the Chief Executive under section 9(1)(a) of the HKPC Ordinance (Cap 1116). Mr Leung will serve a term of two years with effect from January 1, 2003.

Mr Leung is an experienced industrialist in the textiles and clothing field. He has been a member of HKPC since 2000, and has been actively contributing to HKPC matters. He is currently a member of the Business Development Committee under HKPC, and has helped steer the Clothing Technology Demonstration Centre Company Limited of HKPC as its Chairman.

In addition, Mr Leung has impressive community service record in industrial development, education and labour matters. He has been the Honorary President of the Hong Kong Woollen & Synthetic Knitting Manufacturers' Association since 1997 and the Chairman of the Textile Council of Hong Kong Ltd. since 2001. He is currently a Deputy Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries. He is a member of the Vocational Training Council and the Chairman of its Textile and Clothing Training Board. He sits on the Education Commission as member, and is the Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Prince Philip Dental Hospital, which is a teaching hospital for the Dental Faculty of the University of Hong Kong. He is also a member of the Labour Advisory Board and its Committee on Employees' Compensation.

The Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology, Mr Henry Tang, welcomed the appointment of Mr Leung as the new Chairman. He said that Mr Leung's public service record and strong industrial background made him most suitable for the chairmanship.

"HKPC has recently re-positioned its service focus to provide integrated support to innovative and growth oriented Hong Kong enterprises across the value chain, with a sectoral focus on manufacturing, particularly on Hong Kong's foundation industries, and related service activities, and a geographical focus on Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta. At this time of change, a chairman with strong leadership, profound industrial knowledge and commitment to lead the operation of HKPC is of pivotal importance. I am confident that under Mr Leung's steer, HKPC will continue to excel in supporting the small and medium enterprises in Hong Kong, catering for the needs of the industry and contributing to the long-term economic development of Hong Kong," said Mr Tang.

Mr Tang also commended the out-going Chairman, Mr Kenneth Fang, for his exemplary service as the HKPC Chairman since 1994. Under his strong leadership, HKPC has played an important role in supporting the industry, and furthering the economic development of Hong Kong.

"Mr Fang led HKPC with dedication and commitment. With his steer, enthusiasm and insightful advice, the consultancy study on the role, management and operation of HKPC has completed smoothly, laying clear directions for HKPC to stride ahead. Under Mr Fang's capable chairmanship, HKPC has successfully re-defined its role and focus and commenced action to meet new challenges. We are greatly indebted to Mr Fang for his dedicated service," said Mr Tang.

HKPC, as from January 1, 2003, will comprise 17 non-official members and five official members. The new membership list is as follows-

Non-official Members:

Mr Andrew Leung Kwan-yuen, JP (Chairman)

Mr Wong Ming-yam, JP (Deputy Chairman)

Mr Chan Wai-lun

Mr Chu Kwan-lam, Locky

Mr Lin Sun-mo, Willy, JP

Mrs Mak Tang Pik-yee, Agnes, JP

Mr Pun Kai-cheung, Patrick

Mr Tam Ping-cheong, James

Mr Tam Wai-ho, Samson

Prof Tan Sooi-thor

Mr Tang Chung-yen, Tom

Ms Tang Yin-ngor, Elizabeth

Mr Ting Kam-yuen

Mr Wong Ho-kar, Daniel

Prof Xu Yang-sheng

Mr Yin Tek-shing, Paul

Mr Young Tze-kong, Paul, JP

Official Members:

Permanent Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology (Information Technology and Broadcasting)

Commissioner for Innovation and Technology

Director-General of Trade and Industry

Government Economist

Deputy Commissioner for Labour

End/Friday, December 20, 2002

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