Victims of Hong Kong's deadly Wang Fuk Court fire will keep receiving HK$150,000 annual rental subsidies until rehoused—even if it takes 2½ years—Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun confirmed, as the HK$6.8 billion buyback plan faces concerns over flat allocation fairness.
Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun clarified on Monday that Wang Fuk Court fire victims in transitional housing will continue receiving the HK$150,000 annual rental subsidy until they secure exchange flats, potentially for up to 2½ years. This comes amid the government's HK$6.8 billion plan—announced Saturday—to buy back damaged units, funded by HK$2.8 billion from a support fund and HK$4 billion public money.
Owners can opt for cash buyouts at HK$8,000–HK$10,500 per square foot or flat-for-flat exchanges in 10 Housing Authority/Society projects. Wong, on a radio show, urged owners to decide wisely by August 31 (with priority for June 30 provisional agreements), warning legislative acquisition would yield lower payouts. He called it a compassionate, one-off measure without precedent.
Residents remain skeptical about the allocation process. A 40-year-old resident surnamed Fong questioned the 'blind commitment' in provisional agreements: "How can we sign before knowing what flats we get? If unsatisfied, will alternatives be offered?" Fears include smaller homes or being priced out of the market post-cash buyout. Clearer allocation details are demanded.