Task Force on Tackling the Issue of Subdivided Units holds first meeting (with photos)
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The Task Force will conduct an in-depth study on the comprehensive handling of the issue of subdivided units (SDUs), and make recommendations along the following directions in 10 months’ time:
(i) set the minimum standards of living conditions for SDUs in terms of their building safety, fire safety and hygiene requirements, living space, etc;
(ii)suggest measures to eradicate substandard SDUs;
(iii) prevent the resurgence of substandard SDUs; and
(iv) put forward solutions to address the problem in an orderly manner, covering necessary administrative and legislative proposals.
The Secretary for Housing is the Deputy Head of the Task Force. Other members include the Secretary for Development, the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare as well as other relevant Heads of Departments.
At the meeting, Task Force members discussed the overall direction of the Task Force’s work, as well as the upcoming work plan and arrangements. Bureaux and departments also shared preliminary issues of concern in relation to handling problems pertaining to SDUs, such as enforcement and regulation targeted at SDUs, overcharging for water and electricity, fire safety, transitional and follow-up arrangements in relation to eradicating SDUs, collection of SDU data, efforts on poverty alleviation, etc.
Mr Wong said, "The issue of SDUs involves the wellbeing of tens of thousands of families. Tackling such an issue is hardly a short-term target which can be achieved overnight. Yet, as the saying goes, ‘A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step', the Task Force has wasted no time and starts its work right away.
"The Government will plan carefully, taking into account views from society with a view to proposing measures which can precisely resolve the SDU issue," he said.
The terms of reference and membership of the Task Force are set out in the Appendix.
Ends/Friday, November 3, 2023
Issued at HKT 17:31
Issued at HKT 17:31
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