Hong Kong constitutional, mainland affairs minister Erick Tsang resigns, reveals he has cancer

Erick Tsang Kwok-wai has resigned as Hong Kong’s secretary for constitutional and mainland affairs, saying he is suffering from prostate cancer and cannot cope with the heavy workload.Shortly after the State Council’s announcement, city leader John Lee Ka-chiu dismissed speculation about further departures of principal officials.He said his cabinet had fulfilled its duties and “shared his philosophy”, adding that he would not comment further on his team until the investigation into the Tai Po fire was completed.Beijing made the announcement on Tsang early Tuesday, ending days of speculation about the resignation of the 62-year-old from the cabinet.According to state news agency Xinhua, the decision by the State Council was based on the recommendation of Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu and made in accordance with relevant provisions of the Basic Law, the city’s mini-constitution.Meeting the press after the announcement, Lee said Tsang had served the government for over four decades and thanked him for his contributions to coordinating multiple elections in recent years and advancing the city’s integration into the Greater Bay Area.