SARS situation is still critical and the government will spares no efforts to fight against the epidemic, and in the meantime, to revitalize the economy, Hong Kong Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa said Thursday when addressing the Legislative Council.

　　He said the Special Administrative Region government has over the past month taken a series of measures to prevent and control the killer disease. The steps have been proved effective and determined, he added.

　　"The situation is gradually stabilizing and we have seen the infection cases number is getting down to the single digital over the past ten days," Tung said.

　　The chief executive said the works of Hong Kong are highly estimated by the Central Government and the world community.

　　"But we must not treat the situation lightly, especially when we are still facing the challenges," Tung said.

　　Regarding "the disaster" SARS has brought to Hong Kong, Tung said the "hardship also unearthed the care and unity of the Hong Kong people" and pushed the people to strive forward.

　　He said the government is considering measures to rebuild Hong Kong when the disease fades away. Steps also must been taken to prevent another outbreak of the epidemic in the future.

　　"After this critical moment, we must work very hard to accelerate Hong Kong's economy, which was hit gravely by the disease," Tung said.

　　He said the government will consider thoroughly the public opinion on ways for Hong Kong's development, but superficial words against the government cannot deplete his determination to implement "one country, two systems" policy and to serve Hong Kong and its people.