In response to media enquiries on the illegal structures at her properties, the Secretary for Justice, Ms Teresa Cheng, SC, issued the following response yesterday (January 21).

     "The following is a progress report from the Authorized Person (AP) commissioned by the Secretary on following up on the illegal structures at her properties:

- Regarding the illegal structures in the property in Tuen Mun, the Buildings Department (BD) replied and approved some rectification works to be carried out. The contractor will immediately commence works in accordance with the approval. The AP will continue to follow up with the BD on the works that are pending approval;

- Inspections on the other properties owned by the Secretary have been completed. Among them, three alterations, without record of registration, were found in the property in South District on Hong Kong Island. All these alterations were already there when she bought the property. The AP recommended to carry out rectification in accordance with the original building plan. The AP has also on behalf of the Secretary reported the findings to the BD and parts of the rectification works will commence as soon as possible. Two of the rectifications involved the exterior walls and works are pending approval of the property management committee.

- Further, for the two properties in Sha Tin, the AP, after inspections, considered that no rectification is needed.  However, there are some doubts about the fire rating of the kitchen door of the residential property, and it was recommended that it be changed.

     The Secretary understands public concerns over the issue and will keep the public informed of the latest development when appropriate."
 

Ends/Monday, January 22, 2018
Issued at HKT 0:18

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