The Government decided that Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing, instead of Under Secretary for Housing Victor Tai, will take up the post of Secretary for Housing until tomorrow due to a sudden change of events.

Mr Tai was initially appointed as Acting Secretary during Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho's leave from July 26 to August 11, but he had to take three days' leave starting yesterday due to illness.

Given the sudden change of events and the absence of the Deputy Financial Secretary from Hong Kong, the Government decided that the post of Secretary for Housing should be taken up by Mr Cheuk for the three days.

To enhance governance, three Deputy Secretaries of Departments were created to strengthen co-ordination of work across bureaus, the Government noted.

The acting arrangement fully demonstrates the positive role of the Deputy Secretaries in facilitating the Government's effective operation, reflecting the philosophy of improving governance through systematic enhancements as well as the flexibility and team spirit of Principal Officials in making a concerted effort, it added.