Rail link construction scandal firm Leighton hires top Hong Kong lawyer Paul Shieh for commission of inquiry
Two overseas engineering experts are also brought into investigation over shoddy work, which is expected to last eight weeks, ending after Christmas
The main contractor at the centre of a construction scandal plaguing Hong Kong’s most expensive rail link has appointed a top barrister to represent it at a high-level inquiry into shoddy work starting next month.
During a preliminary session on Monday to lay the ground rules for the independent commission of inquiry starting on October 22, it was revealed that Leighton Contractors (Asia) had hired Paul Shieh Wing-tai, a senior counsel and former Bar Association chairman.
Leighton, which has remained silent on the controversy, was the main contractor in charge of building the Hung Hom station platforms for the HK$97.1 billion Sha Tin-Central rail link, where the shoddy work was found.
Two overseas engineering experts were also brought into the investigation, which was expected to last eight weeks and end after Christmas.