CE announces setting up of Tai Po fire independent committee

已複製連結

A major fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has so far left 151 people dead, with more than 30 still missing. Chief Executive John Lee announced the establishment of an independent committee to examine the cause of the fire and why it spread so rapidly. Lee also stressed that all those who should be held responsible will be brought to justice.

The government has set up three task groups for the Wang Fuk Court fire, including a joint investigation team formed by the Police and the ICAC. Before attending the Executive Council meeting, Chief Executive John Lee said he hopes the investigation can be completed as soon as possible to bring the suspects to court.

Lee said,
“All those who need to be held responsible will be brought to justice. Regardless of who is involved, we will get to the bottom of it and pursue accountability to the end. We must let the truth come to light, uphold justice, allow the deceased to rest in peace, and reassure the living.”


Lee added that the Wang Fuk Court tragedy reflects eight major problems in building repair and construction works—from execution to supervision—which require systemic reform.

Lee said,
“These issues include:
1) Safety requirements for building repair works, standards of supervision, and routine maintenance systems.
2) Whether there are systemic problems across the various stages of the works, such as improper connected interests, role conflicts, collusion, or coordination of misconduct.”

“Other issues include whether the bill of materials for repairs is comprehensive, and whether verification and testing systems are effective. Whether supervisory personnel—including government departments and Authorized Persons—are clear on their roles and responsibilities, and whether there were lapses in oversight of fire safety systems. Whether the projects involved corruption or bid-rigging. The attribution of responsibility for the fire, and whether current laws and penalties are adequate.”

“To prevent similar tragedies from happening again, I will establish an independent committee chaired by a judge to examine the causes of the fire and its rapid spread, as well as related issues. I will liaise with the judiciary to invite a judge to head the committee and to study the detailed scope of work.”


Lee stated that the government will provide the committee with the necessary information to help it complete its work as soon as possible, make recommendations, and submit a report to support the government’s deepening reforms.


Asked whether he himself should be held accountable for the fire, Lee reiterated that long-standing deficiencies exist in construction and works, and the government will ensure reforms are properly carried out.