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Transcript of CS's media session
Following is the transcript of the remarks (English) made to the media by the Chief Secretary, Mrs Anson Chan, after opening the Home-School Co-operation Drug Education Roving Exhibition this (Tuesday) afternoon:
Question: How do you react to the Chief Justice ...?
CS: Of course I'm very happy that the Chief Justice has agreed to extend the service by eight months. This is agreed between him and the Governor and I'm happy that he is willing to extend the service.
Question: Is it because it is difficult to find the right candidate to fill this post?
CS: No.
Question: (inaudible)
CS: I've just said that all appointments within the civil service between now and June 30, 1997 is of course a matter for the Hong Kong Government. After July 1, 1997, the filling of all principal official posts of which the Attomey General is one, the nominations will have to be made by the Chief Executive Designate and the nominations will have to be notified to the Central Government of China.
Question: How do you react to ... PLA?
CS: I would just reiterate that the stationing of PLA in Hong Kong is of course governed by the Basic Law. It is quite clearly stated there that the garrison that will be stationed here will comply with Hong Kong laws, will not interfere in the internal affairs of the Special Administrative Region. But at the specific request of the Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong, if necessary, the garrison will provide assistance and help the civilian authorities in Hong Kong.
Question: (inaudible)
CS: For example, in the case of an emergency.
Question: How do you define emergency?
CS: For example if there are natural disasters, if it is necessary, if we feel that the civilian authorities need assistance, then we may request the garrison to help. Thank
you.
End