The Chief Executive today re-appointed the Chief Secretary for Administration as chairman of the Honours Committee for the year 2005, and nine others as members.

Members of the committee are:

* Chief Secretary for Administration (Chairman);

* Financial Secretary;

* Leung Chun-ying;

* Cheng Yiu-tong;

* Dr James  Kung;

* Professor Edward Chen;

* Dr Raymond Ch'ien;

* Secretary for Home Affairs;

* Public Service Commission chairman; and

* Director of the Chief Executive's Office.

Under the honours and awards system introduced since the reunification, the Chief Executive will personally decide whether a recommendation is approved.

To ensure recommendations are consistent, appropriate and in line with approved criteria, nominations are considered by an Honours Committee.

Honours and awards are given each year to individuals in recognition of their significant contribution to Hong Kong and for their dedicated public and community service, and for acts of bravery which deserve public recognition.