XN000022-1997-02-20 — Page 6

Warmest congratulations for appointment of Ms Elsie Leung

The following statement is issued by the Attorney General, Mr Jeremy Mathews today (Thursday):

"I am pleased to learn of the appointment of Ms Elsie Leung Oi Sie as the Secretary of Justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. She will be taking on one of the most challenging and satisfying jobs that any lawyer can have.

"The Attorney General, and the Secretary of Justice after July 1, play a crucial role in the maintenance of the rule of law and in upholding justice in Hong Kong fearlessly and without bias. These values underpin our society and are essential for our continued success. I am sure that Ms Leung will serve Hong Kong well and with distinction.

"She will have the support of a department of dedicated and professional officers. She can be assured of the fullest assistance from my colleagues and me in taking up her new responsibilities.

"I offer Ms Leung my warmest congratulations on the appointment."

End

Transcript of the Governor's media session

The following is the transcript of the media session given by the Governor, the Rt Hon Christopher Patten after attending a luncheon hosted by the Australian Chamber of Commerce this (Thursday) afternoon:

Question: ... (on Mr Deng Xiaoping's death)

Governor: Perhaps I can set my reply in context. On behalf of the Government and people of Hong Kong. I would like to offer my condolences to Mr Deng's family and to the Government and people of China. Mr Deng is one of the historic figures of this century and of course his role in opening up and modernising China's economy has helped to shape the last years of this century and will help to shape the early years of the next century as well.