Secretary defends MiC quality after workers cut screws at Light Public Housing sites

Housing Secretary Winnie Ho Wing-yin has addressed the recent discovery of cut screws at three Light Public Housing construction sites, emphasizing that the issue stems from on-site installation errors rather than MiC component quality.

On Monday, the Architectural Services Department revealed that workers at sites operated by the "Able-Chun Wo JV" consortium had shortened screws and enlarged screw holes on support plates without authorization.

Ho stated that MiC components undergo extensive factory testing and maintain strict quality control, confirming no inherent quality issues. She compared the situation to a washing machine installation: "The washing machine itself has no problems, but if the worker makes errors during connection, the machine will leak."

The Secretary noted that workers encountering fitting difficulties should have reported to engineers rather than forcibly modifying components. She called for improved supervision from site supervisors, contractor engineering teams, and Architectural Services Department consultants to prevent similar issues.

Regarding the Tenant Purchase Scheme, Ho acknowledged its value while noting public concerns about fairness and potential impacts on public housing allocation if too many units enter the private market. The government is carefully considering appropriate unit quantities for any potential relaunch.