New CP outlines work objectives
The Government announced on January 12 that the State Council had, on the nomination and recommendation of the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, approved the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Tang King-shing as the Commissioner of Police and the removal of incumbent Commissioner Lee Ming-kwai from the Principal Official post.
Mr Tang will take up his new appointment on January 16 when Mr Lee proceeds on pre-retirement leave on the same day after serving the Force for 34 years, says a government statement.
Mr Tang speaks to the media at a tea reception
Speaking of Mr Lee's retirement, the Chief Executive said: "Since taking up the appointment as Commissioner of Police in December 2003, Mr Lee has made commendable efforts in maintaining the law and order of the community. He has entrenched the service quality culture in the Police Force and demonstrated personal care and attention for frontline staff. Under his able leadership, the Police Force has continued to excel as a world-class professional law enforcement body. We sincerely wish Mr Lee a happy retirement."
The Government also announced that Senior Assistant Commissioner Yam Tat-wing will succeed Mr Tang as Deputy Commissioner on January 16.
New CP lists objectives
Meeting media representatives shortly after announcement of his appointment, the Commissioner-designate said it was a great honour for him to succeed Mr Lee.
"As Commissioner of Police, duties and burdens are very heavy and there are a lot of challenges. However, I have much confidence that all my staff will work hard together to address and tackle all the challenges of maintaining law and order and also to sustain Hong Kong's status of being one of the safest and most stable cities in the world," Mr Tang added.
Speaking of his objectives in assuming office, Mr Tang stressed it was important to continue performing effectively all the tasks related to the CP's Priorities and the CP's Three-year Strategic Action Plan. To this end, he has set the following objectives -
Also meeting the media, Mr Lee described Mr Tang as "a professional, experienced and capable leader". "I have full confidence in him that he would take the Force forward and continue to serve the community and keep Hong Kong as one of the safest cities in the world," Mr Lee noted.
Meanwhile, on the day following the CP's appointment, Mr Lee took salute at a passing out parade. For more details and photos, please see Photo Features.
Commenting on Mr Tang's appointment, the Chief Executive said: "Mr Tang has served in the Hong Kong Police Force for nearly 31 years and has extensive knowledge and experience in the operations and management of the Police Force. Over the years, Mr Tang has made great efforts in enhancing the efficiency and professionalism of the Police Force. I am confident that he will lead the Police Force in meeting the challenges ahead."
A Guard of Honour Ceremony was held at the Arsenal House Ceremonial Area to bid adieu to CP on his last day in office on January 15