Council gifts queried
Members of the Islands District Council were offered food hampers by a Discovery Bay land developer this year, sparking concerns about possible conflicts of interest.
It is understood that Hong Kong Resort, the developer of the residential-resort complex on Lantau Island, sent hampers to many of the 22 councillors soon after the four-year council term began in January.
Each hamper contained a bottle of red wine, a can of abalone, Chinese mushrooms and other snacks.
The developer's relationship with councillors is seen as sensitive because council business touches on Discovery Bay and development by the company in other parts of Lantau. At the council meeting yesterday, the hamper gifts came to light during discussion on bus services to Discovery Bay and the development of Coastal Skyline, a residential site.
Civic Party councillor Amy Yung Wing-sheung, who represents Discovery Bay, said the company had given out hampers, although she had not received one.
She said members should not have accepted them as it would arouse suspicion.
A Home Affairs Department spokesman said any gift worth HK$500 or more could be donated at events organised by the council.
Hong Kong Resort said it needed more time to make a comment.
