The directions conference of the Independent Committee in relation to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po will be held on February 5, with an estimation that the subsequent hearings will officially commence mid-March.
The conference will set the directions on the arrangements for subsequent hearings to be conducted by the Committee, including identifying individuals or organizations, or their legal representatives, who intend to attend the subsequent hearings; the language to be used, the manner of submission of witness statements and documents, etc; and will consider other matters relating to the hearings.
There will not be any presentation of evidence or examination of witnesses at the direction conference, and it will be open to the public.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu earlier established the Committee to review the cause of the incident and related issues. David Lok Kai-hong, the Judge of the Court of First Instance of the High Court, was appointed to lead the Committee.
Former Legislative Council member Chan Kin-por and Non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of the MTR Corporation Limited, Rex Auyeung Pak-kuen, were appointed as committee members.
The Independent Committee will focus on two aspects: the causes and improvement suggestions, and the origin of the bid-rigging issue that occurred at Wang Fuk Court.
Five barristers, including senior barristers Victor Dawes, Lee Shu-wun, Jason Yu, Brian Lee Chun-hin, and Jonathan Fung, have been appointed by the Independent Committee.
The Independent Committee commenced operation last December and is expected to file a report within nine months of commencing operations.
(Updated at 6.03pm)
