Anson Chan prepares for a restful twilight years

Anson Chan, Hong Kong's former chief secretary, said today she will give up civil and political work.

In a statement, she said she had promised her children a long time ago that she would close the chapter in public life and lead a quieter life.

"Hong Kong has been and always will be my home. I urge young people not to lose hope for their future and continue to hold fast to the values that underpin our unique city but to do so in a law abiding and peaceful manner," she said in a statement.

She said: "I reached the age of 80 at the start of this year, an age at which I long ago promised my children I would step back from civic and political engagement and lead a quieter life.
"The recent loss of a beloved daughter is a devastating blow. I want to give myself time and space to mourn and recover. I also want to spend as much time as possible with my family, particularly my granddaughters and son-in-law.''
 

Chan, the first woman to become the chief secretary, retired from the post in 2001, after nearly forty years of service. She was also the first Chinese to hold the second-highest governmental position.