Hong Kong authorities could vet construction firm directors to tighten oversight

Hong Kong authorities are considering expanding background checks for construction projects to include company directors and subcontractors, in addition to the currently vetted "authorised persons." This potential policy shift, announced by Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho, aims to address loopholes exposed by the Tai Po inferno and strengthen the city's maintenance regime. The government's proposal follows expert feedback that current measures don't adequately address systemic issues. While specific details of the vetting process are yet to be revealed, it will likely involve screening disciplinary and criminal records to ensure company qualification for government projects. The current mechanism primarily focuses on the track record of the authorised person, such as a registered surveyor or architect.

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