Tai Po fire investigation will not be converted to more powerful inquiry commission, chair says (opens original article in a new tab)

An independent committee investigating the Tai Po fire will not be upgraded to a statutory commission of inquiry, as the chairperson stated that sufficient evidence has been gathered and witness cooperation is uncertain. The hearings will proceed as planned, aiming to conclude within nine months.

• An independent committee investigating the Tai Po fire will not be converted into a commission of inquiry with statutory powers.
• The chairperson stated that substantial evidence has been collected and witness cooperation is uncertain even with statutory powers.
• The committee aims to complete its hearings within nine months as requested by the Chief Executive.