SCMA sends condolences to family of Ma Lik
******************************************

    The Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Stephen Lam, said he was saddened by the news of the passing of the Chairman of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, Mr Ma Lik, in Guangzhou today (August 8).

     "We offer our deepest condolences to Mrs Ma and her family members. Over the years, Mr Ma has made an important contribution to the drafting of the Basic Law, Hong Kong's smooth transition in 1997, the implementation of 'One Country, Two Systems' and our constitutional development. His presence in Hong Kong's political life will be missed by many.

     "Our Guangdong Economic and Trade Office will contact Mr Ma¡¦s family to see whether any assistance can be offered," Mr Lam said.

Ends/Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:28

NNNN