Official watchdog: Alan Lai will succeed Alice Tai as Ombudsman.

Alan Lai has been appointed the Ombudsman for five years from April 1 to succeed Alice Tai whose term of office will expire on March 31.

Mr Lai, aged 57, joined the Government in 1974, serving initially as a Judicial Clerk and later as an Executive Officer. He joined the Administrative Service in 1976 and has worked in various bureaux and departments. He was the Permanent Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury (Treasury) from July 2002 to October 2007.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang said Mr Lai has 30 years of experience in public administration and proven management skills, adding the Office of the Ombudsman will continue to serve as an independent and impartial channel for redress in the community under Mr Lai's leadership.

Mr Tsang also thanked Ms Tai for her exemplary service and wished her every success in her future endeavours.

Responding to the appointment, Mr Lai said he will do his utmost to serve the public by acting independently and fairly in investigating matters of public concern in accordance with the powers given to him under the Ombudsman Ordinance.