1.
Governor's message to US President
The Governor, the Rt Hon Christopher Patten, has sent the following message today (Thursday) to the President of the United States:
Dear Mr President,
I was deeply saddened to hear the news of the tragic death of Secretary Ron Brown and his party in the Adriatic. I met Mr Brown on both the recent occasions he travelled to Hong Kong and China. His energy and enthusiasm, and his very warm sense of humour left a deep impression on us all. He was an outstanding member of your administration and this sad news has shocked the community here.
I send my heartfelt condolences to his wife and family and to the families of all those who died.
With warm regards,
End
Yours sincerely
Chris Patten
Chan:
Statement by the Deputy to the Governor
The following statement is issued by the Deputy to the Governor. Mrs Anson
"We are shocked and saddened to learn that the plane carrying US Commerce Secretary, Mr Ron Brown, and a number of business leaders and military personnel. has crashed near Croatia.
"Mr Brown was a good friend of Hong Kong and the region. He was a tireless trade promoter, and has inspired American business with a new focus on the big emerging markets. He was also a man of great charm, and will be missed by all who have met him.
"Our condolences go to his family and loved ones at this sad moment, as well as the families of others on the plane."
End