Premises to get approval

PLANS for premises similar to the Shekkipmei Hongkong Bank branch where 12 people died in a fire last month will continue to be approved, the Secretary for Security Alistair Asprey said.

Only one exit and entrance was necessary for such premises under present laws and the bank branch complied with the law.

Mr Asprey said the Building Department, which is part of an investigation following the fire, would take into account any lessons to be learnt.

He refused to be drawn on whether present legislation needed to be changed.

Mr Asprey said the fire was different from normal industrial accidents because crime was involved.