Briefing by the Secretary for Security on the Chief Executive’s 2017 Policy Address
Counter-terrorism measures
Mr CHAN Chun-ying asked how the Inter-departmental Counter-Terrorism Unit (“the Unit”) to be established by the Administration would collaborate with various government departments and overseas counterparts in its counter-terrorism work. He also sought information on the division of work between the Unit and the Police’s existing counter-terrorism units. S for S responded that the Unit would add on to the existing counter-terrorism structure and system and strengthen coordination. It would not replace any of the Police’s existing counter-terrorism units. The Unit would also coordinate education of the public to enhance their alertness and preparedness towards emergency situations.
Fire safety
Referring to paragraph 3 of the Administration’s paper, Mr CHAN Chun-ying expressed concern about whether the financial provision of about $2 billion was sufficient for launching the Fire Safety Improvement Works Subsidy Scheme (“the Scheme”). He asked whether there was a timetable for the completion of fire safety improvement measures for all old composite buildings under the Scheme.
S for S responded that the Scheme sought to subsidize owners of old composite buildings who had financial difficulties to undertake fire safety improvement works as required under the Fire Safety (Buildings) Ordinance (Cap. 572). It was roughly estimated that the subsidy to the owners of an old target building under the Scheme would be in the range of $400,000 to $1 million per building. The Administration anticipated that for relatively simple cases, the fire safety improvement works could be completed in about one year’s time.
Briefing by the Commissioner, Independent Commission Against Corruption on the Chief Executive’s 2017 Policy Address
Corruption prevention in works contracts and building management
Mr CHAN Chun-ying declared that he was a member of the Operations Review Committee of ICAC. Referring to paragraphs 16 and 17 of ICAC’s paper, he asked whether ICAC would play a more active role in the prevention of corruption in the tendering process of major infrastructure projects.
Director of Corruption Prevention (“DCP”) responded that ICAC had been working closely with the Development Bureau and works departments as well as public bodies concerned to provide them with corruption prevention advice on the letting and administration of works contracts. Where necessary, staff of ICAC’s Corruption Prevention Department also attended as observer at preparatory or tender assessment meetings of major infrastructure projects to provide timely advice. The implementation of the recommended corruption prevention measures, including ICAC training for staff of consultants and contractors was reviewed from time to time.