The State Council approved the appointment of Tang King-shing as Commissioner of Police from January 16 after Dick Lee's retirement, the Hong Kong government announced Friday.

Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Peter Yam will succeed Tang as Deputy Commissioner.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang said Tang has served for more than30 years and has extensive knowledge and experience in the force's operation and management.

"Over the years, Tang made great efforts in enhancing the efficiency and professionalism of the Police Force. I am confident that he will lead the Police Force in meeting the challenges ahead," he said.

Tsang also commended Lee for maintaining law and order as Commissioner since December 2003.

In a meet-the-media session Friday afternoon, Tang said it was an honor to be appointed Police Commissioner. He would have a heavy duty and burden, and face many challenges. But with the hardworks of all staffs, he had very confidence that the force would be able to address all the challenges.

52-year-old Tang joined the force in 1976 as a Probationary Inspector. He was promoted to Chief Superintendent in 1996, Assistant Commissioner in 1999, Senior Assistant Commissioner in 2002 and Deputy Commissioner in 2003.
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(Xinhua News Agency January 13, 2007)