Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Frederick Ma has decided to resign for health reasons.

In a statement released tonight, Mr Ma said he has been recently diagnosed as having 'cavernous hemangioma' and 'venous angioma' - blood vessel tumours in the brain. After discussions with his family, he decided to step down from his position and tendered his resignation to the Chief Executive on June 12.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang said he has discussed the decision with Mr Ma in depth twice and fully sympathises with his situation.

"I will forward his resignation to the Central People's Government for consideration immediately. My heart is with Mr Ma and his family, and I wish him a speedy recovery," Mr Tsang said.