Press Releases

Government response to independent inquiry request

In response to the request of the family of the drowned hawker in Tin Shui Wai on June 26 to set up an independent committee to investigate into the incident, a Government spokesman said today (June 30) that their demand has been noted.

The Police have conducted independent investigation into the drowning case and a report would be put to the Coroner for vetting and for an independent decision on whether a death inquiry should be convened, the spokesman said.

"The aforementioned procedure has acted in accordance with the spirit of independent inquiry and is in line with the Government's long-standing practice of adopting open, fair and transparent manner in handling cases. As such, it is not necessary to commission another independent inquiry into the case," the spokesman added.

After the incident, the Social Welfare Department and the Home Affairs Department have contacted the family members of the deceased hawker immediately to offer appropriate assistance.



Ends/Friday, June 30, 2006
Issued at HKT 19:52

NNNN