**************************
The following is issued on behalf of the Judiciary:
The following is a statement by the Honourable Chief Justice, Mr Geoffrey Ma, today (November 8):
"I am much saddened to learn that former Chief Magistrate, Mr Tong Man, passed away last night after a brave battle against illness. On behalf of all judges and staff of the Judiciary, I offer our deepest condolences to Mrs Tong and the rest of his family.
"As Chief Magistrate, Mr Tong gave invaluable advice to both former Chief Justice Li and myself, and performed his duties with skill, dedication and the utmost professionalism. I am much indebted to him.
"He was awarded a Bronze Bauhinia Star this year in recognition of his many years of devoted service in the Judiciary."
Mr Tong was born in Hong Kong in 1953. He obtained B.Soc.Sc., LL.B. and P.C.LL in 1977, 1986 and 1987 respectively. In 1987 he was called to the Bar in Hong Kong. He joined the then Legal Department as Assistant Crown Counsel in 1987. He was promoted to Crown Counsel in 1988 and Senior Crown Counsel in 1991. He was appointed as Magistrate in 1993 and was promoted to Principal Magistrate in 2001. He became Chief Magistrate in 2008 and retired in September 2013.
Ends/Friday, November 8, 2013
Issued at HKT 17:16
NNNN
