The independent committee in relation to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has formally commenced work, as committee chairman David Lok convened the first meeting with members Chan Kin-por and Rex Auyeung today.

The committee’s terms of reference have wide scope with complex and wide-ranging issues to be covered.

They include examining the causes and circumstances that led to the blaze and its rapid spread at Wang Fuk Court, construction safety and related issues concerning building maintenance and renovation works, as well as systemic problems related to the tendering process of large-scale building maintenance and renovation works.

At today’s session, the committee discussed the work priorities and work plan preparations. Mr Lok reiterated that the committee will do its utmost in discharging its duties, aiming to complete work within nine months and submit a report to the Chief Executive.

The report and recommendations will be disclosed to the public with the exception of information involving judicial proceedings, he added.