Deputy Commissioner for Tourism Duncan Pescod will head the Efficiency Unit from November 4.

Secretary for the Civil Service Joseph Wong said Mr Pescod had amassed rich experience in public administration through various postings in his Government career.

"I have full confidence in his leadership ability. I am certain that he can lead the unit in his new capacity and make a contribution to public service."

Mr Pescod, 45, joined the Government in 1981, and rose to his present rank of Administrative Officer Staff Grade B1 last April 1.

Mr Pescod has served in various bureaus and departments, including the former Home Affairs and Security Branches, the Lands Department, the former Urban Services Department and the former City & New Territories Administration.

He was Deputy Secretary for the Civil Service from December 1996 to June 2001, and took up his current position in June 2001.