The following is issued on behalf of the Independent Committee in relation to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po:
 
     The Chairman of the Independent Committee in relation to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po (the Committee), Mr Justice David Lok, convened the first meeting today (December 19) with members Mr Chan Kin-por and Dr Rex Auyeung Pak-kuen. The Committee has formally commenced work.
 
     The Terms of Reference of the Committee include examining the causes and circumstances that led to the fire and its rapid spread at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, construction safety and related issues concerning building maintenance and renovation works, as well as the systemic problems related to the tendering process of large-scale building maintenance and renovation works. The scope is wide and issues to be covered are complex and wide-ranging. At the meeting, the Committee discussed the priority of work and the preparation of a work plan. Mr Justice Lok reiterated that the Committee will do its utmost in discharging its duties, aiming to complete its work within nine months and submit a report to the Chief Executive. The report and recommendations will be disclosed to the public (except for information involving judicial proceedings).
 
     The Chief Executive established the Committee on December 12, appointing Mr Justice Lok as the Chairman and Mr Chan and Dr Auyeung as members to review the causes and related issues of the Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po, and to make recommendations to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.

Ends/Friday, December 19, 2025
Issued at HKT 18:00

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