New chief: Simon Peh (left) will succeed Lai Tung-kwok as Director of Immigration from April 7.

The State Council has approved the appointment of Deputy Director of Immigration Simon Peh to succeed Lai Tung-kwok as Director from April 7, when Mr Lai will proceed on pre-retirement leave after more than 34 years of service.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang said Mr Peh has served in the department for 30 years and has extensive knowledge and experience in its operations and management.