Dedicated service: Robert Footman will retire from the civil service in July after 30 years service.

Former Commissioner for Transport Robert Footman will retire from the Government in July, the Civil Service Bureau says.

Mr Footman joined in September 1974 and rose to his present rank of Administrative Officer Staff Grade A in January 1997.

He has served in different bureaux and departments, with his last post as Commissioner for Transport from November 1998 to June last year.

Secretary for the Civil Service Denise Yue said Mr Footman has rendered more than 30 years of loyal and dedicated service to the public and the Government, and offered her best wishes on his retirement.

"He has earned the respect of his colleagues. During his tenure as Commissioner for Transport, he ably led the Transport Department to provide quality service to the public. His efforts and contributions towards the goal of providing one of the world's best transport systems to the people of Hong Kong are greatly appreciated," Miss Yue said.

Mr Footman said he felt privileged to have served the community through the Government.

"I am most grateful for all the opportunities I have had in so many fields for over thirty years, especially in developing and introducing various initiatives in serving the community. I also want to thank my wonderful colleagues. I have benefited from their professionalism and friendship. I have decided the time has come to make a change. Hong Kong is my home and I will continue to contribute to the community in other ways."