New SCED appointed (with photo)
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    The Central People's Government, on the nomination and recommendation of the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, today (July 12) approved the appointment of Mrs Rita Lau Ng Wai-lan as the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (SCED) and the removal of Mr Frederick Ma from the post of SCED.

    The Chief Executive commended Mr Ma for his dedication in serving the people of Hong Kong and his tremendous contributions in the areas of monetary and financial services, commerce and economic development during his service in the Government. Mr Tsang also expressed appreciation of his outstanding abilities and sound communication with various sectors of the community. He wished Mr Ma a good rest and a speedy recovery.

    Following is the biographical note on Mrs Lau:

Mrs Rita Lau Ng Wai-lan
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    Aged 55. Mrs Lau joined the Administrative Service in October 1976 and rose to her present rank of Administrative Officer Staff Grade A1 in September 2004.

    Mrs Lau has served in various bureaux and departments. She was appointed Deputy Secretary (Information Technology and Broadcasting) in 1998, Director of Urban Services in 1999, Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene in 2000, Permanent Secretary for the Environment, Transport and Works (Environment and Transport) in 2002 and Permanent Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands (Planning and Lands) in 2004. Mrs Lau has been Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (Communications and Technology) since 2007.

Ends/Saturday, July 12, 2008
Issued at HKT 13:33

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