Crowded flat to be cleared

The Philippine Consulate will today begin moving 47 women and four babies from a North Point flat after overcrowding led police and Fire Services to investigate.

The consulate had planned to move the women and their children some time this month, but agreed more urgent action was needed because conditions had become dangerous.

The 1,000-square foot flat, with no working toilet or air-conditioning, had been used by the consulate as a shelter for Filipinos who would otherwise be homeless. The consulate has now acquired three other properties.

About 10 residents will be moved to a flat in Stanley and 15 to Sai Kung.