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Transcript of remarks by CS (with photo/video)
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     Following is the transcript of remarks by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Stephen Lam, at a media session after attending a radio programme this morning (May 6):

Chief Secretary for Administration: I am very honoured to have served Hong Kong for over 30 years in public service. My wife and I have decided some years ago that after completion of this term of government, I would go overseas to attend a theological course. I have been informed by Oxford University in the last few days that my application has been accepted.

     We actually planned this process for some years. My perspectives have always been: to be a politically appointed secretary is an honour, but serving in a political office, you cannot serve forever. I represented Hong Kong in both Canada and Britain. According to my understanding, officials who fill ministerial positions overseas, normally they serve one term, exceptionally some of them serve two terms. In my case, I have served almost two and a half terms. I think the time has come for me to turn a new leaf. It has always been my wish after completion of my public service to delve into theological studies. My wife and I look forward to this spirit of sabbatical rest and fulfilling ourselves more in terms of understanding of our Christian faith. Our hope is that following this sabbatical year, I would be able to serve the churches of Hong Kong and our church organisation as a lay member more effectively. I believe this is the right time for me to leave the political scene.

     Actually prior to March 25 of the Chief Executive Election, responsible officials in Beijing those who cover Hong Kong and Macao affairs have asked me about my intentions as to whether I would consider remaining in the next-term Government. On that occasion I expressed my personal wish that after completion of this current five-year term, I would leave Hong Kong to pursue one year overseas studies. Actually I have been considering this option for some time and I am very pleased that in the last few days Oxford University has accepted my application and I am able to convey to you this latest development.

     Thank you very much.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

Ends/Sunday, May 6, 2012
Issued at HKT 14:12

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