Hong Kong official backs government's full accountability for fire
Hong Kong's Executive Council non-official members support the government's apology and reform plans after the Hung Fook Estate fire. Convenor Regina Ip says the government showed determination for full accountability and layered responsibility.
Hong Kong's Executive Council (ExCo) non-official members have issued a statement expressing full support for the government's approach to facing problems, taking responsibility and pushing forward comprehensive reforms, following the Hung Fook Estate fire.
ExCo non-official members convenor Regina Ip Lau-she said the chief executive and principal officials had clearly explained the government's follow-up work to the public and apologised on behalf of the government to victims and the wider public, demonstrating sincerity and political commitment.
Ms Ip said she supported the chief executive's call for the team to continue working at full capacity in their respective roles, to advance reforms and future work, learn lessons and better exercise leadership, and implement the governing philosophy of 'results-oriented governance' more forcefully.
She said she agreed with the seven major system reform directions the government has introduced. On accountability, she said the government had shown determination for full accountability and layered responsibility.
Ms Ip said the Hung Fook Estate fire had exposed long-standing weaknesses in various institutional areas and the issues involved were complex. She said handling them required firm resolve and precise, decisive decision-making.
The ExCo non-official members said they would fully support the government in implementing comprehensive reforms and continue to cooperate with the administration. Ms Ip expressed confidence that if society works together and turns pain into strength, learns lessons and thoroughly implements institutional reform, similar incidents can be prevented and Hong Kong can become a safer, better home.
