XN000022-1997-02-20 — Page 5

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The Chinese Government has announced the appointment of all eligible serving officers as Principal Officials of the SARG. In other words, Mr Tung Chee Hwa's nominations have been accepted by the Chinese Government. I am personally very encouraged by this news. As you know, these officials have been my colleagues for many many years, and I have every confidence in their ability and in their loyalty to Hong Kong. The appointment as Principal Officials will ensure that there is continuity at the top of the civil service during the transition period. And I am sure that this will be welcomed both by the Civil Service and by the entire community.

I wish also like on behalf of my colleagues to congratulate Miss Elsie Leung on her appointment as Secretary of Justice (Designate) and to extend to her a very very warm welcome. This is a very responsible post as it will be responsible for upholding the rule of law impartially and fearlessly. Miss Leung has considerable experience both of the law and of public service. My colleagues and I look forward to working with her and we will cooperate and give her every possible assistance.

I would also like to congratulate Mrs Lily Yam on her appointment as Commissioner of the ICAC. As we all know, the ICAC plays a vital role in Hong Kong, and the Basic Law specifically provides that it will continue to function independently after July 1. Mrs Yam is an experienced civil servant who has previously worked in the ICAC, and I am sure she will maintain the fine tradition that previous Commissioners have established. Thank you.

Question: (on provisional legislature)

Chief Secretary: Mr Tung has made it quite clear that all the freedoms guaranteed under the Joint Declaration and the Basic Law will continue after 1997. Insofar as a certain proposals by the Legal Sub-group.. our concern.. Mr Tung has already said that he will widely consult the public and I am sure Mr Tung will soon announce how this public consultation will be conducted.

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