A $2.3 BILLION contract to build homes for police and Customs officers has been awarded to the highest bidder, even though it is nearly $310 million more than a rival bid.
The move was last night attacked by a legislative councillor who said the Government should justify the decision to lawmakers.
Allegations have also been made that the homes would be too lavish for junior officers.
But Director of Architectural Services Pau Shiu-hung defended the deal, arguing it included a better design that would give long-term savings on maintenance costs.
'The $300 million is a sum of money, but it is not something that is so large compared with the whole project.
'Invariably, you pay a higher price for a better job. Our policy has been to pay for technical cost, but we will cut down on maintenance,' Mr Pau said.