The following is issued on behalf of the Judiciary:
 
     Chief Justice Andrew Cheung, Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal, today (September 17) expressed great sadness at the passing of Mr Eric Charles Barnes, GBS, a retired Judge of the High Court, who passed away yesterday.
 
     "Mr Barnes made significant contributions to the work of the courts in his various judicial roles throughout his long and dedicated service. He was a fine judge and a gentleman. He remained closely connected to the Judiciary until very recently," Chief Justice Cheung said.
 
     Mr Barnes joined the Judiciary as a Magistrate in 1966. He was appointed Senior Magistrate in 1977 and became a District Judge in 1978. In 1981, he was elevated to the High Court Bench, where he served with distinction until his retirement in 1992.
 
     "On behalf of the Judiciary, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to his family," Chief Justice Cheung added.

Ends/Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Issued at HKT 18:30

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