CE: gov prepares reform to pursue accountability on Tai Po fire

As the judge-led independent committee is poised to submit its report on the Wang Fuk Court fire, to Chief Executive John Lee by the end of this month, the government has reportedly set up a task force to pursue administrative accountability.

The devastating fire in Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po claimed 168 lives in November last year.

An independent committee was set up in December to look into the cause of the blaze.

Following nearly 30 hearings, a report will be submitted by the end of this month.

Speaking ahead of the Executive Council meeting, Chief Executive John Lee says the government will roll out "comprehensive reforms" with accountability measures shortly after reviewing the report.

JOHN LEE: "The government will study it and follow it up, particularly the recommendations. The government has already made a series of preparations upon receipt of the independent committee's report. The government will base on the content implement comprehensive reforms as soon as possible and pursue accountability."

The committee's purview covers examining the regulatory roles and responsibilities of government departments, professionals and contractors, though it's not explicitly empowered to demand the resignation of accountable officials.

The government implemented a two-tier department head accountability system in July with the second tier activated if the cases involve Permanent Secretaries or heads of departments.

The most serious cases can lead to early retirement or removal from office.

Reportedly, a dedicated task force has been set up under the Public Services Commission helmed by George Tsoi Kin-pan and former Deputy Secretary for Security Benjamin Mok to follow up on efforts to track accountability.

The city leader previously announced seven priority reform measures, which include banning construction site smoking, tightening regulations on fire service installations, and studying the possibility to criminalise bid-rigging.