Dedicated service

Secretary for the Civil Service Joseph Wong said Ms Lee has served the civil service with dedication for 34 years. She has made exemplary contributions to Hong Kong's development and is well respected for her compassion towards those in difficulty.

"During her 10 years as Director of Home Affairs and later Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs, she played a pivotal role in the promotion and development of district administration, arts, culture and sports, building management, and community and youth policies," Mr Wong said.

Meanwhile, he said Mr Leung has rendered 32 years of loyal and dedicated service to the Government, and has made exemplary contributions to Hong Kong's development.

"During his tenure as the Director of the Beijing Office, he has made commendable efforts in promoting Hong Kong in the Mainland, as well as fostering better understanding, establishing closer links and facilitating exchanges in various spheres between Hong Kong and the Mainland," he said, wishing both a happy retirement.

New appointments pending

The substantive appointments to the posts will be announced separately.

Pending them, Deputy Secretary for Home Affairs Stephen Fisher will double as Permanent Secretary, while Deputy Director of the Beijing Office Patrick Nip will double as director.