New line-up: Chief Executive Donald Tsang (second right) meets the media with Joseph Wong (second left), Denise Yue and John Tsang.

The Chief Executive also appointed John Tsang as the Director of his office. All the appointments take effect today.

Announcing the appointments at a noon press conference, Mr Tsang said all three officials had served in the Government for many years and he is confident they will bring their wealth of experience to the new posts and continue to provide outstanding service.

The Chief Executive had earlier said in the Legislative Council he and the Principal Officials are reviewing policy initiatives' priorities for the coming 18 months and will focus the Administration's efforts on promoting economic development and improving people's livelihood.

"I am sure the three newly appointed officials will work closely with other Principal Officials as a team in helping me further the policy initiatives in these areas," Mr Tsang said.

He stressed the Government's daily operation would not be affected by the reshuffle, and the consequential movement of senior Government officials will be announced later.

Mr Tsang said he has appointed the most suitable person to take up each of the posts, stressing the reshuffle is the best and of the smallest scale.

Joseph Wong experienced in trade affairs

He said Mr Wong has rich experiences in handling trade affairs, while Miss Yue has earned wide respect from the civil service team and has a thorough understanding of the civil service system.

On Mr John Tsang's appointment, the Chief Executive said he is good at communications, adding with his character, experience and ability, he will help the Administration to enhance exchanges with political parties and the Legislative Council.

Mr Wong said he is honoured to accept the new appointment, and will try his best to serve until the term ends on June 30, 2007.

On the recently launched public-service broadcasting review, Mr Wong said he would listen to views from all sectors in deciding the way forward.

Denise Yue keeps civil servant status

Miss Yue said her priority will be to enhance communications with civil service unions and LegCo, to raise civil-service efficiency.

She gave reassurances the policy on civil-service pay would not change, that is, it would not be adjusted to a level lower than that of 1997.

Miss Yue pointed out she has not given up her civil-servant status in accepting this appointment, adding if she no longer takes up a principal official post after June 30, 2007, she would return to the civil service.

John Tsang to enhance communications 

John Tsang said his prime responsibility is to help the Chief Executive to win the community's support for his governance.

On constitutional development, he said communications with all parties are needed to forge a consensus, adding he is confident he can accomplish the task as both the Administration and political parties have the common goal of serving the people of Hong Kong.

For biographies of the three officials, click here.