FSTB issues progress update on work of Task Force on Review of Government Procurement Regime and related disciplinary investigation
The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) today (December 30) issued a progress update on the report of the Task Force on Review of Government Procurement Regime and the disciplinary investigation of the incident on procurement of bottled drinking water. An FSTB spokesman said that subsequent to the announcement and implementation of a series of quick-win measures in October to strengthen protection against fraudulent acts, the Task Force chaired by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, has been exploring further enhancement measures and has completed its review on the existing government procurement regime. The disciplinary investigation of the incident on procurement of bottled drinking water was also completed recently. The Government is studying the investigation report and consulting the Department of Justice to determine suitable disciplinary actions to be taken. Relevant results will be announced as soon as possible and are expected to be ready next month. The results will then be announced together with the Task Force report to conclude the incident.
The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB), Photo source: reference image
Furthermore, the Government Logistics Department launched an open tender today for the contract to supply bottled drinking water to government offices on Hong Kong Island and parts of the outlying islands. Following new guidelines promulgated this October, this tender exercise has strengthened relevant requirements at various stages, including preparation of tender documents, tender evaluation and contract management, to help procurement officers guard against fraudulent acts more effectively and to select a supplier competent to ensure a stable supply of bottled drinking water in accordance with contract terms.
Bottled drinking water, Photo source: Threads
