Commissioner of Police Andy Tsang has welcomed the appointment of John Lee as the Under Secretary for Security, saying he is confident of his ability to do the job.

Speaking to the media after attending the Sai Kung District Council meeting today, Mr Tsang said Police will work closely with Mr Lee and the Security Bureau in ensuring Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity.

“As far as impartiality is concerned, this is a core value of the Hong Kong Police, and I am sure favouritism will not be something we need to worry about.”

On the planned sailing of a Hong Kong vessel to the Diaoyu Islands, Mr Tsang said the craft’s certificate of survey has been suspended, which means the vessel is unsafe for the voyage.

Although boat safety is under the Marine Department’s purview, Mr Tsang said Police have a responsibility to support the department in law enforcement, and he also reiterated the ship owner's, and the coxswain’s, legal responsibility to ensure the safety of the vessel and the crew on board.