Donald Tsang approves Elise Leung's resignation (Xinhua) Updated: 2005-10-20 21:53
Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang Thursday highly praised Elise Leung
Oi-Sie for her contribution to Hong Kong while announcing an approval of her
resignation as the Secretary for Justice by the central government.
Tsang added that the State Council also appointed Wong Yan-lung as the new
Secretary for Justice with effect from Thursday. He made the remarks at a press
conference on Thursday.
Leung has accepted the Chief Executive's invitation to stay on as a member of
the Constitutional Development Task Force in her personal capacity until Dec.
31, 2005.
Tsang praised Leung's dedication to work and her intense commitment to the
country, to Hong Kong and to the rule of law.
He said, "Elsie's mammoth workload never stopped her from promoting the
interests of the legal profession. She has been vigorous in fostering exchanges
and liaison between the legal sectors in Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland. Her
efforts are well recognized by her peers."
Regarding his invitation to Leung to stay on as a member of the
Constitutional Development Task Force in her personal capacity, Tsang said, "I
extended this invitation to Elsie because our constitutional reform has reached
a defining moment, and she is conversant with the subject. Her knowledge and
experience will greatly help the Task Force explain the government's proposals
to the public and secure their support."
The Chief Executive was very grateful to Leung for agreeing to stay on with
the Task Force. "Despite my repeated offer of remuneration, Elsie eventually
agreed to take only a nominal remuneration. I would like to thank her for her
selfless devotion to serving the public," he said.
Tsang wished Leung a happy retirement and good health.
Leung said at the press conference that the past eight years were the most
precious period of her 66 years of life time.
She said she appreciated Wong for his personality and aspiration,
and believed that he will be competent for the post.
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