Good partner: Chief Executive Donald Tsang and Chief Secretary for Administration Rafael Hui meet the media.

Chief Secretary for Administration Rafael Hui says he will complement Chief Executive Donald Tsang's work to implement people-based policies and build a harmonious, vibrant society.

Meeting the media after the State Council's approval of his appointment, Mr Hui thanked Mr Tsang for his confidence and the Central Government for their support.

Mr Hui, who worked in the Government for 30 years before joining public organisations, described himself as an 'old hand'. However, he said he is also a novice as the post of Chief Secretary is politically accountable.

"In terms of my career, it's a new challenge," he said, adding the Government will stand united, as "with unity we can better serve Hong Kong people and achieve success in the shortest possible time".

He pledged to have the Government operate in a highly effective manner, provide a level playing field, spearhead economic development, increase jobs and enhance Hong Kong as a better place to live. He will co-operate with civil servants to maximise Government efficiency.

Mr Tsang said Mr Hui has insight, ability and commitment to serving Hong Kong people. He said Mr Hui is aware of public aspirations and has been maintaining an ongoing dialogue with lawmakers and political parties.

Mr Tsang expressed confidence in Mr Hui's ability, and believes Mr Hui will aid his work, and help improve the relationship between the administration and lawmakers.

Job duties to be finalised

Mr Tsang will meet with all policy secretaries in the coming two weeks on the co-ordinating role of the Chief Secretary for Administration and Financial Secretary. He will also exchange views with policy secretaries regarding their top priorities in these two years so as to prepare his Policy Address.

Regarding his work as a private company consultant, Mr Hui clarified his work was only to offer advice on political and economic issues, adding he was not involved in the company's West Kowloon Cultural District project. He stressed there is no conflict of interest.

The project's consultation ended today, and views collected will be studied and made public, while exchanges with lawmakers, professionals and project bidders will continue.

Mr Hui said the project is key to Hong Kong's future development, and he values lawmakers' views on the project. He hopes the project will proceed as scheduled and pledges to handle the project according to Government's standing procedures.

On constitutional reform, Mr Hui said the Central Government has a role in Hong Kong's constitutional development as stipulated in the Basic Law, and this will not hamper the 'Hong Kong people ruling Hong Kong' principle.

He hopes lawmakers will reach a consensus on the issue, and a white paper will be issued to clearly outline the direction of the city's constitutional development.

Exchanges between Mainland, HK to boost consumption

Turning to economic development, Mr Hui believed increasing exchanges between Hong Kong and the Mainland will boost domestic consumption and jobs, adding any obstacles should be removed to increase exchanges.

He reiterated the Government will continue to safeguard RTHK's independent editorial rights, and suggested programmes should be of more variety to cater to different needs.

Mr Hui said he will not move into Victoria House - the Chief Secretary's residence on Barker Road - to save government spending on renovations.