The government response is prepared on the basis of views expressed in an extensive consultation exercise conducted both within and outside the Government after the publication of the Consumer Council's report in March.
Members of the public who wish to obtain a copy of the response may write to the Economic Services Branch at second floor, Central Government Offices, Main Wing, Hong Kong, or OFTA, 22nd floor, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai. A copy is also placed on OFTA's home page at http://www.ofta.gov.hk.
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HAD's role in building management disputes impartial
The Home Affairs Department (HAD) must remain impartial when acting as mediator in handling complaints on building management from owners, the Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Michael Suen, said today (Wednesday).
Speaking at the luncheon meeting of the Rotary Club of Kowloon West, Mr Suen said the Multi-storey Buildings (Owners Incorporation) Ordinance was enacted in 1970 to assist owners in setting up building management organisations.
It was amended in May 1993 and renamed Building Management Ordinance (BMO) in a bid to simplify the formation procedure of Owners' Corporations (OCs).
"Furthermore, the BMO has extended the jurisdiction of the Lands Tribunal to cover building management matters", he said.
"The HAD has also strengthened the support work in building management.
"To enrich the knowledge of owners in building management and to encourage them to form OCs, the department has been organising promotional activities and training courses including seminars and workshops.
"It has also produced educational videotapes and information pamphlets on how to achieve effective building management.
"HAD staff will also visit newly formed OCs to understand their work and, if needed, suggest solutions to problems that may arise. They will act as mediator when conflicts occur.