Transcript of remarks by CS and S for S at media session (with video)
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Reporter: Secretary, you've been very reluctant to establish an independent inquiry into the clashes between all sides. Is it because you do not want any officers or any public officials being held accountable for this series of events? And also, we've obtained an internal speaking note by the Chief Executive which says to safeguard the dignity of the Chief Executive, 中文是維護特首尊嚴. Could you explain what does this exactly mean? Is that because the Chief Executive would not be subject to any further calls for her to step down?
Chief Secretary for Administration: First of all, I think we have to consider the very fact that we have an established mechanism in Hong Kong. First of all, the CAPO (Complaints Against Police Office). The CAPO is the first tier, followed by the Independent Police Complaints Council, which is entirely independent, entirely statutory and has a well-tried mechanism. I think we should use the existing mechanism to pursue the matter. It's more appropriate to do so in the first place.
Reporter: Chief Secretary you have not answered my second question, as to what does it mean by safeguarding the dignity of the Chief Executive? And are you essentially saying no political official should go because of this series of controversies?
Chief Secretary for Administration: I'm not in a position to comment on that note which you mentioned. The CE has already made a very sincere apology and stressed in no uncertain terms that the current-term administration will continue to do our very, very best to serve the community. We've got a heavy agenda in terms of improving the economy, propelling Hong Kong forward and also enhancing livelihood across the board. So, it’s very important for us to re-launch Hong Kong together.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Wednesday, June 26, 2019
Issued at HKT 18:08
Issued at HKT 18:08
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Audio / Video
CS and S for S meet the media