Setting up of a Three-member Panel on
Councillors' office rental and declaration matters

A letter from Mr. Law Chi-kwong on behalf of the DP requesting the Institute to recommend an accountant to sit on the panel, and explaining in general terms the panel's remit, is attached at Annex A. Further information on the terms of reference is also attached at Annex B.

We have replied to Mr. Law that, given the public interest concerns and the areas of procedure that the letter indicates the panel should consider, we are agreeable to helping the DP identify an accountant. We have also explained that, in order to ensure impartiality, we will invite expressions of interest from member firms and refer the list of persons that are interested to the DP for its consideration and further action.

You may, however, wish to note that in offering our assistance in this matter, we have expressed some reservations regarding the proposal that panel will be chaired by a senior member of the DP, due to the perception that this may create as regards the panel's independence and objectivity. We feel obliged to draw your attention to this proposal so that you will give due regard to it when considering the appointment.

Against the above background, I would be grateful if you would let us know by 23 September 2004, whether you would be interested to be considered for membership of the proposed panel. If so, would you kindly provide the Institute with your contact details, including your name, the name and address of your firm and a contact telephone number, for the attention of Mr. John Tang, Assistant Director (Business Members & Specialist Practices) (email: johntang@hkicpa.org.hk). You will note that the terms of reference at Annex B indicate that the accountant member of the panel should not be member of the DP and that the work of the panel is expected to take around two-three months.