Official's Transfer Not Tied To Recent Events: CE

Chief Executive Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that the moving of the Lands Department director to a new post has nothing to do with any “recent happenings” and such steps are only carried out after preparations made over some time.

The department’s actions involving a senior police official had grabbed the headlines this last week.

Officials had visited the Clearwater Bay home of assistant police commissioner Rupert Dover on Monday, to look into whether he and his wife are breaching licensing rules for the property, which sits on government land.

In a statement issued on Monday night, the Civil Service Bureau said Thomas Chan, director of the Lands Department, would be posted to the Food and Health Bureau on Tuesday as "special duties" director.

Speaking before the weekly Executive Council meeting, Lam rejected allegations that Chan’s move was linked to the probe against Dover.

“Any posting or new appointments must have been under preparation for some time, and Thomas Chan's posting has nothing to do with recent happenings,” she said.

Responding to reports about alleged violations involving three senior police officers with regards to their homes, Lam said no law-breaking behaviour is acceptable to her, as the Hong Kong leader or an individual.

“Everyone in Hong Kong is equal before the law, in terms of enforcement action by any government department in accordance with the laws of Hong Kong or land leases, everything is in accordance with the law, and it is done impartially, regardless of who the subject is,” said Lam.

”I’m not going to comment on the case. I know the government department is looking into the case. After investigation I will ask for a clear account,” the Chief Executive said.