Patrick Nip Faces Conflict Of Interest Questions

Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Secretary Patrick Nip on Saturday faced criticism over an alleged conflict of interest, after it was revealed that his family bought two properties just before the Chief Executive announced a relaxation of mortgage restrictions in her latest policy address.

According to Nip's new declaration of interests as an executive councillor, his family bought the properties in Sham Shui Po about a month ago.

Critics have questioned whether the family could benefit from a possible rise in property prices due to the government's latest policy change that reduces the down-payment for certain types of mortgages.

But through his spokesperson, Nip said his family had made the decision to buy without his involvement.

He also said he wasn't involved in formulating housing policies for the latest policy blueprint and he and his family haven't benefited from the policies either