(To watch the full media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)

Chief Executive John Lee said the Government has collected preliminary preferences for long-term accommodation from residents of Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, and will finalise a plan as soon as possible.

Ahead of today’s Executive Council meeting, Mr Lee said he attaches great interest and importance to the long-term accommodation arrangements for the residents, and the Government has been continuing to provide suitable assistance to the affected families.

He added that the issues that the Government has to resolve are really complicated as each household has its own circumstances and needs, and there are also very diverse opinions in society.

“The Government must carefully consider and deal with the various views and take into account some very practical issues such as the appropriate use of public resources, the allocation of public funds, the distribution of housing resources, and the relevant legal ownership-related responsibilities and challenges,” Mr Lee said.

The Chief Executive also mentioned that the Government needs to properly manage the transitional arrangements for accommodation, and timely action is crucial.

“The sooner we can make available the options for residents to choose, the better,” he added.

He outlined that the Task Force on Emergency Accommodation Arrangements led by the Deputy Financial Secretary has been working incessantly to develop a concrete plan in various directions.

“First, to consider the wishes of the affected families while ensuring the efficient use of resources and balancing empathy, reason and law. Second, to provide multiple options to affected families, including Home Ownership Scheme and Green Form Subsidised Home Ownership Scheme flats, as well as Hong Kong Housing Society units. And also, third, to offer accommodation arrangements, either within Tai Po or across different districts,” Mr Lee said.

The task force previously gathered initial preferences from affected flat owners through the "one social worker per household" service. Mr Lee confirmed that most responses have now been received.

“The task force is working intensively to compile and analyse flat owners' preferences regarding different options. Initial observations indicate that the vast majority of owners hope the Government will expedite the handling of long-term rehousing work. A significant proportion of flat owners have expressed willingness to consider the Government's acquisition of their ownership rights. Some flat owners have indicated that they need to look at the actual acquisition price,” he added.

The Chief Executive said the task force is currently working hard to overcome difficulties and challenges posed by the following issues:

“First, how to handle the differing needs of various families in a consistent manner. Second, issues regarding liability, compensation uncertainty, and relevant legal matters concerning the public insurance of Wang Fuk Court. Third, whether ownership-related responsibility and legal disputes will pose risks of prolonged delays in resolution,” he said.

Mr Lee made it clear that he has instructed the task force to promptly study the feasibility of various options and the legal issues, seek advice from the Department of Justice and propose arrangements as soon as possible.

“I understand this is no easy time for families of Wang Fuk Court. The Government will work tirelessly to finalise the plan as soon as possible, enable affected families to make the most suitable choices, and assist them in rebuilding their homes and resuming their normal lives as quickly as possible,” he added.