(To watch the full media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)

The Central People’s Government announced today that – in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Basic Law – it has, upon the recommendation of Chief Executive John Lee, approved the removal of Erick Tsang from the post of Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs.

Ahead of today’s Executive Council meeting, Mr Lee said Mr Tsang had earlier tendered his resignation due to health reasons. Following discussions with Mr Tsang, Mr Lee recommended to the central authorities that Mr Tsang be removed from his post.

Mr Tsang has served the Government for nearly 40 years. As Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs, he was responsible for liaison and co-operation between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Mainland. He also handled policy matters concerning human rights in the Hong Kong SAR, among other duties.

In addition, Mr Tsang supervised the Registration & Electoral Office in working with the Electoral Affairs Commission to organise a number of important elections in the city.

“I am thankful for Mr Tsang’s contributions over the years and wish him the best of health and luck in future endeavours,” Mr Lee said.

The Chief Executive also highlighted that principal officials’ jobs are very demanding.

“Not only the workload is heavy, but the pressure is also heavy. So, I can understand why Erick, under the present health condition, would like to take a rest so as to take care of his health problems.”

The Chief Executive said he will work to identify a suitable candidate to succeed Mr Tsang as Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs. During this period, Under Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Clement Woo will be Acting Secretary.

“I have also said that there will be no further change of principal officials, particularly now we have so many things to do, and they are all doing as I require them to do, sharing my governance philosophy,” Mr Lee added.