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Following is a statement issued by the Secretary for Development, Mr Paul Chan, today (August 1) regarding his family member's investment in old buildings:
"Established in 1994, Harvest Charm Development Limited (the Company) is owned by my wife (Ms Frieda Hui), her family members and friends. When the Company was first established, I was a director of the Company but I resigned in October 1997.
Upon media enquiries, I have discussed the issue with my wife. My wife will issue a statement later tonight giving a detailed account.
It is well known that for cases involving senior Government officials or community celebrities, the Buildings Department (BD) has all along taken appropriate enforcement action in strict accordance with the Buildings Ordinance and the prevailing enforcement policy in an impartial manner. The BD would not make any special arrangements because of the identity of the owner concerned when carrying out enforcement action.
As the relevant case involves my family member, the BD will not report their work regarding the case to me.
The BD, as the enforcement department, is responsible for investigation and enforcement actions. The Development Bureau does not give any direction to the Department over such work.
I am grateful to the media for their vigilance and I believe my wife will handle the matter properly."
Ends/Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Issued at HKT 21:02
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