John Lee Hopes Govt Revamp Completed In Time

Chief executive hopeful John Lee said on Saturday that he hopes incumbent Carrie Lam can complete her government restructuring plan before a new administration takes office on July 1.

Lam has proposed adding new government bureaux and revamping their duties, including setting up a new cultural, sports and tourism bureau, splitting the Transport and Housing Bureau and turning the Home Affairs Bureau into one that focuses on youth and district affairs.

Lee, the sole contender for the chief executive post, said it would be very helpful to the formation of a new cabinet if the restructuring happens before July 1.

"I hope the current government can complete the restructure before a new administration officially takes charge, this, I believe is also what the current government is planning to do," he said.

"Of course it is quite a rush given the time left, but I'm very confident in the preparation work already done by the current administration," he continued.

Lee visited Science Park and the New Territories Association of Societies on Saturday morning as he continued his campaign.

He said he is studying how to boost Hong Kong's competitiveness through Science, technology and innovation, as well as how to strengthen and make good use of the power of communities as he works "non-stop" to draft his manifesto.