Government rejects suggestions surveyor conspired with contractor at Tai Po fire hearing
AI Summary
During a hearing investigating the deadly Tai Po fire in Hong Kong that killed 168 people, the government refuted allegations that its surveyors conspired with a contractor to conceal flammable materials used during renovations at Wang Fuk Court. Government lawyer Jenkin Suen SC acknowledged the government's responsibility to review shortcomings in supervising minor construction and handling complaints. Survivors testified about seeing workers smoking at the renovation site and criticized the lack of communication between government departments. One survivor called the fire "man-made" and avoidable, suggesting that functioning fire alarms and fireproof materials could have reduced casualties and limited the fire's spread. The independent committee is investigating the disaster to prevent similar tragedies.
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Key Claims (5)
AI-ExtractedThree survivors recounted their ordeal in the public inquiry.
Last year’s fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po killed 168 people and displaced nearly 5,000 residents.
The government acknowledges the need to review shortcomings in supervising minor construction works.
Government lawyer rejected assertions of surveyor conspiracy in Tai Po fire.
The fire was 'man-made' and avoidable.
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