The government on Wednesday announced that Wang Fuk Court residents have had their taxes for the previous financial year waived, as part of efforts by the administration to provide as much support as possible for those affected by the Tai Po fire.

The government said residents don't have to pay provisional taxes for the current fiscal year as well, and the administration is settling their bills on government rents and rates.

"In other words, they will not need to settle the tax demand notes issued for the year of assessment 2024-25," a spokesperson said in a statement.

"We will also pay the Government rent on behalf of the affected property owners and residents and waive the rates for domestic tenements that became inhabitable due to the fire."

The water and sewage charges from July to November will also be waived.

Authorities said earlier that affected residents don't have to pay for hospital costs, replacing their identity documents or using public columbarium and related services.

Meanwhile, the government said public donations to a support fund for victims of the fire have risen to HK$2.1 billion.

Along with the administration's initial injection of HK$300 million, the total sum is now up to HK$2.4 billion to help affected residents rebuild their lives and homes.

Separately, a spokesperson of the Office for Safeguarding National Security said anyone who attempts to sabotage the SAR government's rescue efforts by inciting protests and chaos will be sternly punished by the law.

In a statement, the office said a small amount of external forces have been claiming to speak up for people to try to disrupt rescue and relief efforts.
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Last updated: 2025-12-03 HKT 23:16