Seven new members have been appointed to the Housing Authority for two years from April 1. They are Shih Wing-ching, Stanley Wong, Professor Anthony Cheung, Anthony Chow, Joseph Lee, Li Kwok-ying, and Fred Li.

They come from a wide variety of backgrounds, including public administration, real estate services, academic, financial services and legal services. Some are serving or have served on the authority's committees.

Eleven members have also been reappointed - Chung Shui-ming, Michael Choi, Ho Sai-chu, Ip Kwok-him, Patrick Lau, Chan Kam-lam, Teresa Cheng, Dr Martin Kwong, Sin Chung-kai, Liu Sing-cheong and Tommy Cheung.

In considering the appointments, the bureau wants to ensure a fair balance of community interests and professional expertise, as well as a periodic turnover of membership.

The authority is facing a number of challenges. Its financial position will be immensely affected by the outcome of the judicial review case on rent level review and the re-launch of the Initial Public Offer of the Link Real Estate Investment Trust, while ensuring the provision of adequate public rental housing with a view to maintaining the average waiting time at around three years.