In Brief
Watchdog head changes
Mr Justice Pang Kin-kee has not been reappointed to head the government watchdog that vets post-retirement job applications by former chief executives and political appointees. The government has appointed former legislative councillor Moses Cheng Mo-chi to replace Mr Justice Pang. Former executive councillor Henry Fan Hung-ling will also leave the advisory committee on post-office employment for former chief executives and politically appointed officials.
Solicitors' court access increased
Amendments enabling experienced solicitors to gain greater access to the High Court and the Court of Final Appeal will be gazetted tomorrow. Solicitors with at least five years' post-qualification experience and who satisfy other eligibility requirements may apply. Additional requirements may include completion of an approved advocacy course and passing of related assessments. The amendment bill provides that where a person who does not have 'higher rights of audience' to the courts and purports to exercise those rights as a solicitor will be guilty of contempt of court and will commit an offence punishable by a fine of HK$500,000.
John Tsang in London
Financial Secretary John Tsang Chun-wah left Sweden for London yesterday to meet Bank of England governor Mervyn King and exchange views with him on international banking business and the idea of using the G20 as a platform for co-operation to combat the economic crisis.
