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The following is issued on behalf of the Executive Council Secretariat:
On the announcement by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, today (January 20) about the appointment of five new members to the Executive Council (Exco), the Convenor of the Non-official Members of Exco, Mr Leung Chun-ying, issued the following statement:
"On behalf of my non-official colleagues of the Executive Council, I would like to extend our warmest welcome to all new members whose appointments to the council have just been announced by the Chief Executive.
"The five new appointees have outstanding achievements in various sectors and display great dedication to public service.
"I believe that members of Exco will work closely in the council. I am confident that under the leadership of the Chief Executive, all non-official members will spare no effort in assisting him in policy-making and contributing to the development of Hong Kong.
"I would also like to express my gratitude to the five outgoing non-official members. I am very honoured to have been able to work with them. While serving on Exco, they have actively participated in Exco business. They are wholly committed to serving the community and have all made outstanding contributions. I am sure they will continue to serve Hong Kong with dedication and vigour after their departure from Exco."
Ends/Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Issued at HKT 14:20
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