CE saddened by passing of Lei Jieqiong
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     The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, today (January 10) was saddened to learn of the death of Ms Lei Jieqiong.

     "A chief founder of the China Association for Promoting Democracy and a key figure behind the establishment of the People's Republic of China, Ms Lei was also the Vice-chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and Vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress," Mr Tsang said.

     "A state leader and a renowned jurist, Ms Lei served on the Basic Law Drafting Committee and visited Hong Kong a number of times to gauge the views of various sectors of the public. In 1997, she attended Hong Kong's handover ceremony at the age of 91. Hong Kong was always close to her heart.

     "Ms Lei was committed to promoting education. Her research covered law, sociology, demography, women, marriage, family matters and aging problems. Her dedication and contribution to education in China are well recognised.  I extend my deepest condolences to her family."

Ends/Monday, January 10, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:02

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