Erick Tsang resigns for health reasons

The Central People's Government announced today that it has, upon the recommendation by Chief Executive, John Lee, approved the removal of Erick Tsang Kwok-wai from the post of Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs.

John Lee and Erick Tsang met the press together this morning.

Tsang disclosed that his prostate cancer levels had risen and, after discussing it with his family, he decided to resign.

Tsang had earlier tendered his resignation to the Chief Executive due to health reasons. After a thorough discussion with Tsang to better understand his condition, the Chief Executive has recommended to the Central People's Government the removal of Tsang from his post.

The Chief Executive said,

"Mr Tsang has served the Government for nearly 40 years. During his tenure as Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Tsang was responsible for the liaison, co-operation and development between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Mainland.

He was also responsible for handling the policy matters concerning human rights in the HKSAR and election-related arrangements, among other duties.

He supervised the Registration and Electoral Office in working with the Electoral Affairs Commission to successfully organise a number of important elections in the HKSAR.

I am thankful for Mr Tsang's contributions over the years and wish him the best of health and luck in future endeavours."

The Chief Executive will identify the suitable candidate for the post of Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs.

During this period, the Under Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Clement Woo, will be the Acting Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs.