The government laid five misconduct 'charges' against head of InvestHK InvestHK chief Mike Rowse was punished for his alleged failure to ensure his agency critically examine the Harbour Fest budget and 'fully and adequately' advise the government's Economic Relaunch Working Group on the finances, it emerged yesterday. The alleged failure was among five 'charges' the government laid against Mr Rowse, whose agency to promote inward investment was given the responsibility of relaunching the city following the Sars outbreak in 2003. It was the only allegation that was fully substantiated, while the other four have only been partially established. The findings led to the levying of a HK$156,600 fine on Mr Rowse. He was also warned he would be removed for further misconduct. The three-year disciplinary proceeding was one of the longest handled by the government. Lawmakers said the penalty was too lenient in view of the money allegedly wasted on the much-criticised pop concerts. The other four allegations regarding his role in controlling HK$100 million funding for the American Chamber of Commerce to host the event include: Failure to introduce in the deal provisions to give the government the approval power over major programmes and budget changes, and to provide for periodic progress reports and access to documents; Failure to provide for a refund in a sponsorship agreement with Amcham for any event not held, and for the chamber to provide periodic progress reports and to consult with the government on ticketing strategy; Failure to critically review ticket pricing strategy and free ticket distribution, prejudicing the government's position; and Failure to establish a mechanism for InvestHK to scrutinise budget and account statements before and during the event. The Civil Service Bureau would not elaborate on what allegations remained unsubstantiated. But they include failure to give the government approval over programme and budget changes. There was also no provision requiring periodic progress reports or refund mechanisms in case of problems. Without naming Mr Rowse, Secretary for the Civil Service Denise Yue Chung-yee said the fine was on the basis of a reduction in monthly salary by two increments for 12 months. As Mr Rowse's directorate grade 6 rank has no increments, his salary of HK$162,650 will be slashed to the first pay point of director grade five (HK$149,600) for a year. She declined to comment on specifics, saying the outcome might face a court challenge. Mr Rowse has maintained his innocence and has said he would appeal. Democrat Cheung Man-kwong said: 'It's like having dumped HK$100 million into the harbour and yet Mike Rowse was only fined less than HK$160,000.' Amcham was not available for comment yesterday.
