Ip and Lam appointed to ExCo

The appointments of Regina Ip and Jeffrey Lam as non-official members bring the Executive Council up to full strength.

With their appointments, the ExCo now comprises all 15 principal officials appointed under the accountability system and 16 non-official members.

Chief Executive CY Leung, who appointed both executives, said Lam and Ip have rich experience in the Legislative Council and public service, and are committed to fostering Hong Kong's development.

"The appointment of two more LegCo members will not only help strengthen the relationship between the executive and legislature, but also facilitate the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in formulating policies that are more responsive to public demand," Leung said.

Lam, 60, is currently a LegCo member and a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference. He was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star last year.

Ip, 62, is also a LegCo member and Chairperson of the New People's Party and the Savantas Policy Institute. She served as Director of Immigration from 1996 to 1998, and as Secretary for Security from 1998 to 2003. She was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star in 2002.