In response to media enquiries concerning the cost of repair works of the Financial Secretary's official residence, a spokesman for the Financial Secretary's Office today (February 27) replied as follows:

     The Financial Secretary's official residence is a Grade 2 historic building with about 80 years of history. It comprises a two-storey house and an outdoor garden. The last large-scale renovation was carried out in 2007. In view of the deterioration of the parts and facilities in the residence due to their use over a long time, relevant departments, in accordance with established procedures, proposed to carry out some necessary repair and restoration works after the former Financial Secretary had moved out. Such works are an integral part of the maintenance for the residence.

     According to the current estimates, the cost for repairing and restoring dilapidated parts and facilities is about $830,000, of which $390,000 is for repairing the building and the floor coating, $40,000 for replacing worn-out carpets, $180,000 for touch-up painting of external walls, and $160,000 for replacing dilapidated furniture and installations, and around $60,000 for contingency provision. The relevant works have commenced and are expected to be completed in March. After completion of these works, there will be no need to carry out similar works when the Financial Secretary of the next-term Government assumes office.

Ends/Monday, February 27, 2017
Issued at HKT 22:24

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