Survivors fear scrutiny gaps as Hong Kong fire probe declines statutory powers

An independent committee investigating Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in decades has ruled out seeking statutory powers to compel witnesses to testify, a move that has…

An independent committee investigating Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in decades has ruled out seeking statutory powers to compel witnesses to testify, a move that has left some survivors concerned that key figures may avoid scrutiny.

Committee chairman Justice David Lok Kai-hong said the panel would not ask the chief executive to convert it into a statutory commission of inquiry during the ongoing investigation into last year’s Wang Fuk Court blaze, which resumed on Monday after a six-week pause.

Lok said the move would delay the current investigation and render the committee unable to deliver its final report within nine months of its establishment in December last year.

He also argued that a commission of inquiry would complicate existing criminal proceedings and that witnesses deemed liable for the disaster might not provide full and frank answers.

“We cannot expect these witnesses to fully cooperate, even if compelled to attend. They could claim not to remember or give evasive answers,” the High Court judge said.

“We can assure the public that every decision made by the judge-led committee is based on legal principles and public interest. Political and public relations considerations are not our concern.”

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