Housing chief quits, others stay to drive reform after deadly fire

Secretary for Security Chris Tang and Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun both state they will follow the Chief Executive's instructions to remain in office and drive reform in the aftermath of the Tai Po fire.

Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn reveals she considered resigning as Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho steps down.

Nearly a year after the Wang Fuk Court fire that claimed 168 lives, the government bowed and apologised to the victims and the public.

Four departments were named held accountable for the fire.

During the government press conference, Chief Executive John Lee was repeatedly asked why Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho was the only official to take political responsibility and step down.

Lee responded it was his "personal political decision".

Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn revealed she had considered resigning, but decided to follow chief executives instructions rather than prioritise her personal considerations.

The Fire Services Department was also named in the report.

Secretary for Security Chris Tang, who oversees the disciplined services, was also asked if he had considered resigning.

He responded his personal role was not what mattered, emphasising the chief executive's instructions must be followed.

Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun apologised for the incident again, stating he had spoken with chief executive about his decision on political accountability.

He went on to say the chief executive made two demands of the relevant secretaries, including to remain in their posts to drive reform and learn from the incident.

As to whether a new Secretary for Housing will be appointed, Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong, who is concurrently serving as acting secretary, noted only about eight months remain in the current team of government, making it difficult to find a replacement.

However, regardless of the duration, he will continue to hold the concurrent post.

The government has initiated an investigation under the Heads of Department Accountability System for the four named departments.

Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung stated even if the civil servants involved in the fire resign, the government can still follow up.

Yeung explained it is very rare for colleagues to resign to evade disciplinary action, that they generally cooperate with investigations.